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FLOWERS OF FANCY 



FLOWERS OF FANCY 

poems 
MARY C. BURKE 

NEW YORK CITY 




RICHARD G. BADGER 

THE GORHAM PRESS 
BOSTON 



Copyriifht, I913, by Mary C. Burke 



All Rights Reserved 









The gorham Press Boston U. S. A. 



1 f ■' » 

©CI.A347398 



fflowers of tanc^, tbat come anb oo, 
On Uttlc cbil5ren some gooD bestow, 
Unterest tbem, ant) fill tbem witb love 
jFor all tbat ts ma^e bg (3ot) above. 

fillari? C. JSurfie. 



CONTENTS 

Achievement 49 

After the Weary Day 61 

American Banner, The 80 

Apple Tree, The 112 

Arbutus 130 

At the Clothing Store 116 

At the New Year Gate 69 

Autumn 33 

Autumn Colors 39 

Base Ball Game, The 106 

Bear, The 84 

Blizzard, A 60 

Brownie 25 

Burial of the Dead, The 90 

Cat Bird, The 108 

Child and Mother 14 

Culture 166 

Dancing 41 

Don't You Wish? 22 

Drowsy Eyes 27 

Duty 137 

Education 15 

Efficiency lOl 

Example 82 

Fairest of Banners 76 

Fair Land of Columbia 79 

Faith 13 

Fall Flowers 37 

Farewell, Old Year 66 

Fatal Ship, The 114 

Fern, A 99 

First Rose, The 147 

Flowers 16 



CONTENTS 

Flower Folks 17 

Fond Memories 169 

Forget Dull Care lOO 

For Old Love's Sake 174 

Fortitude 87 

Friends 135 

Friendship 97 

Gentleman, A 1 15 

Girlie Dear 183 

Golden Sun, The 96 

Good Will 74 

Happy Heart 24 

Health 172 

Helpfulness 1 23 

Hero's Flag, The 81 

Heroism I18 

Homeward Bound 1 8 

Honesty 43 

Humming Bird, A 164 

Icebergs 95 

Ideals 153 

I'm Lonely Darling i77 

In April 105 

In Blossom Time 1 19 

In December 54 

Industry 83 

In February 7 ' 

In Flower Land 163 

In June 155 

In Late October 40 

In March 86 

In Memoriam 144 

In My Garden 179 

In November 47 

In Old Scotland 58 

In Spring 85 



CONTENTS 

In the Arbor l8o 

In the Maple Tree 129 

In the Oriole's Nest 109 

In the Wood 91 

In Time of War 167 

In Wintertime 59 

June Days 156 

Just Before Christmas 56 

Lady Bug 32 

Last Rose, The 184 

Life and Destiny 133 

Lily-of-the-V alley 139 

Love's Labor is not Lost 55 

Lullaby, A 21 

Man's Career, A 122 

March Wind 93 

May Song, A 136 

May time. Playtime 132 

Merry Birds 126 

Money 173 

Moon, The 26 

Morning Glories 149 

New States, New Stars 78 

New York Bay 182 

October 34 

Old Year, The 65 

On Hallowe'en 38 

On Life's Ocean 1 27 

On Saint Patrick's Day 88 

On Saint Valentine's Day 73 

On the Shore at Night 30 

Orator, The 50 

Our Choice 178 

Our Donkey 94 

Our Lives 128 

Our Seasons 53 



CONTENTS 

Peep O'Day 143 

Plant, A 138 

Playmates 28 

Prayer, A 168 

Pride of Patriotism, The 157 

Proper Way, The 48 

Prudence 148 

Puss 62 

Pussywillow, The 89 

Rain in Summer 159 

Ramblers' Auto Song, The II3 

Real Worth 104 

Service 92 

Shepherd, The 15 1 

Sleep 20 

Smiles 67 

Snail, A 120 

Snow, The 52 

Somewhere 70 

Spring Dresses 124 

Spring Is Here II7 

Spring Rain, The 131 

Squirrel, The 44 

Story of a Bean, The 45 

Subiuay, The 161 

Success 68 

Summer 160 

Summer Day 29 

Summer is Here 158 

Sun in Winter 57 

Sun's Message, The 141 

Sweet Clover 152 

Sweet May i lO 

Sweet Summer Morn l8l 

Sympathy 171 

Temptation and Conscience T2 



CONTENTS 

Thanksgiving Day 5 1 

Thank You 170 

'Tis May 142 

Toad, The 165 

To a Rose 162 

To a Seed I2i 

To Childhood 19 

To Christopher Columbus 35 

To Horses 146 

To My Mother 176 

To Our Banner 77 

To the Baby 185 

To the Birds 46 

To the Spring 103 

Trees 154 

Trees, The 36 

Trillium 102 

True Strength 1 25 

Vesper Hour, The Ill 

Veterans on Parade, The 145 

Violet! Violet! 98 

Washington, George 75 

Watchword, The 175 

Watch Your Step 42 

When the Evening Sun is Low 23 

Wild Roses 150 

Will Power 134 

Winter Sunset, A 64 

Wood Concert, A 31 

Woodpecker, Mr 140 

Work 107 



FLOWERS OF FANCY 



FAITH 

As o'er Life's pathway we are treading, 

Just as many trod before, 
Are our footsteps weak and faltering, 

Is our faith of dying score? 

Not all pleasure our expectation. 

Life must sometimes have sad strain. 

Lest we'd know not how to bravely, 
Endure wrong, discomfort, pain. 

Life's duties demand all the honor. 

That we mortals can employ, 
Words and actions based on strong precepts, 

Will bring comfort, peace and joy. 

Finally God's Glorious Mansion 

In the far blue skies above. 
Will invite us at His pleasure. 

To reward our faith and love. 



13 



CHILD AND MOTHER 

Pretty baby on the knee 
Of your loving mother, 
Would that you might always be, 
Just as happy and as free, 
As your life appears to me 
Knowing naught of bother, 
Your dear heart remain as now, 
With fondest kisses on your brow. 

Ah, what sweet expressions glide 

O'er mother's gentle face. 

How she longs your steps to guide, 

Through the path of honest pride. 

Ever ready at your side, 

To help you in life's race. 

On the road of truth and right, 

Her influence, your leading light. 



H 



EDUCATION 

The pure at heart are happy 

Regardless of their station, 
No matter what they lack or have, 

They may claim education. 

Who has learned to be an aid 

To many a worthy cause 
May claim higher education, 

Broadmindedness without flaws. 

Whose brotherly sympathy 

Treats with love living creatures, 

He may claim education. 

His mind has soulful features. 

WTio does no deed dishonest. 

Nor defies Almighty Power, 
His is truest education 

WTiich o'er princely wealth may tower. 



15 



FLOWERS 

Who does not love the dear Flowers? 

Who would dare pass one by 
Without some kind beautiful thought, 

Or a reverent sigh? 

They impart their fragrance to us 
Through each bright-tinted cup, 

Oft so weighted with sweet essence, 
They, their heads can't hold up. 

No speck of selfishness abides. 

E'en though they be silent, 
For truest love bursts from their hearts 

In form of precious scent. 

We know not which we cherish most, 

We love their silent song; 
The message in their colors bright 

Will e'er God's word prolong. 

See the sturdy Rose of Sharon! 

How with bloom 'tis bowed down! 
Such perfection ! One grand cluster 

Of hope from root to crown! 



i6 



FLOWER FOLKS 

Pretty flowers, blooming ever, 

In the garden fair, 
Don't you think your life is happy, 

Free from toil and care? 

You have sweet sunshine, dew, and rain, 

Pleasant friends are they, 
And oft genial zephyrs passing. 

Stop with you to play. 

The birds and bees oft visit you. 

Fairies too, at night, 
Protect your frail, tender bodies, 

Till comes morning light. 

Well I think your life is merry. 

Not at all lonesome. 
At morn and noon and eventide, 

Some friend's sure to come. 



17 



HOMEWARD BOUND 

As day is drawing to an end, 

And duty's tasks are almost done, 

A tender love conies hovering 
As if 'twere born of setting sun. 

It fills our hearts v^^ith pleasure 
That no other note can instill, 

And we haste nobly to our homes 
With an array of right good will. 

Where beloved ones await us, 

None too soon can our forms appear; 

And 'tis this sweet homeward journey 
That makes the close of day so dear. 

Whate'er distance, or what burden 

Is included in our calling, 
'Tis forgot when thoughts of home folks 

Come to us when night is falling. 



i8 



TO CHILDHOOD 

Bright days of our childhood, 
Oh, come back from the past, 

And again make us happy, 
Though life's trials come fast. 

Come back to us with kisses 
From dear parents and friends. 

The affection we cherish. 
And ever its love lends. 

As adown life's wild river. 

Changeful every turn. 
We drift midst perplexities. 

For your pleasures we yearn. 

Naught can bring you back, sweet youth, 

You're a thing of the past; 
Yet memories of childhood 

Make fond scenes while they last. 



19 



SLEEP 

Put the darling to sleep dear, 

Let her lie upon her right side, 
Kiss lovingly her rosy cheek, 

Brush back her curls with pride. 
Pray God may watch and guide her, 

Let no sorrow rob her of rest. 
And with health and happy childhood, 

Ask His will that she be blest. 



20 



A LULLABY 

While low the evening breeze 
Is whispering through the pine, 

Darling shut thy drowsy eyes, 
Let sweetest sleep be thine. 

The flowers have closed their petals. 
Golden sun has left the west. 

And tender little birdlings 
Are dreaming in their nest. 

Then rest in soothing slumber, 
Silent watch, angels will keep 

Around thy bed, dear darling, 
While thou art wrapt in sleep. 



ai 



DON'T YOU WISH? 

Don't you wish you were a boy 

A spinning a peg-top, 
Or when toys are not handy 

You may run, or skip, or hop? 

Don't you wish you were a boy 

Afishing in a pool, 
When there is a holiday. 

Suspended the strict school? 

Don't you wish you were a boy 

With nothing else to do, 
But have fun the live-long day. 

No fixed task to pursue? 

Don't you wish you were a. boy 

Upon a roller-skate, 
Sometimes swift, and sometimes slow, 

Agoing your own gait? 

Oh, boys have jolliest times, 

And let them have them too 
For childhool days pass quickly. 

Life gets a sober hue. 



22 



WHEN THE EVENING SUN IS LOW 

The last rays of golden light 
In the western sky scarce show, 

And soft night-clouds hang like curtains, 
When the evening sun is low. 

Feelings as of hushed music 

Across our senses flow. 
And folks welcome rest from labor. 

When the evening sun is low. 

Who toils not, nor spins daily, 
Cares not how feeble the glow, 

But burdened souls find sweet comfort, 
When the evening sun is low. 



23 



HAPPY HEART 

I know the dearest dolly, 

As pretty as can be, 
With cheeks of pink, eyes that wink. 

And ever full of glee. 

With toys all day she e'er doth play, 

And cross she never gets, 
With pleasant smile, all the while. 

She makes the best of pets. 

This dolly is a girlie, 

A baby girl of three, 
The prettiest, wittiest, 

Sweetest girl there can be. 

I hope she'll e'er be jolly. 

Know naught of sulkiness, 
A happy heart will impart 

Joy by its true sweetness. 



24 



BROWNIE 

Folks call him Brownie but do you know 

His neck and his arms are as white as snow? 

But his face quite speckled with spots of tan 
Makes brown the appearance of our wee man. 

A beautiful pink creeps o'er the tan 

Whenever any thought disturbs "Little Man," 
And his blushes banish the brown specks 

When folks annoy, or questions perplex. 

"Now how is it," he often will say 

"That I should be hampered in this queer way? 
I am not brown that's plain to be seen, 

And what does this changing color mean?" 

Ah, no, dear boy, your color is your charm. 

Pink and brown of your face, white of your arm, 

All indicate that you have strength and health. 
The richest, happiest sort of wealth. 



25 



THE MOON 

The moon is fair to-night, dear, 

Arrayed in silver bright, 
And far and wide on every side. 

The stars lend a twinkling light. 

Everything seems tranquil, dear, 

As 'twere in slumber deep. 
While this fair night, mid soft moonlight, 

Faithful vigil the stars keep. 

The busy day ended, dear, 

All nature went to rest. 
And we in peace, may win release, 

With the balm of sweet sleep blest. 



26 



DROWSY EYES 

The dew is softly falling, 

Now close your drowsy eyes, 

Sleep dearest one, till night is done, 
And sun bids folks arise. 

The moon is slowly creeping, 

From behind yonder hill, 
Without a sound it makes its round, 

Its purpose to fulfill. 

While we are resting cosily, 

All through the silent night. 
The tender moon, a song doth croon, 

To the stars twinkling bright. 

She lulls us to sleep with her song, 
And you, "Sweet Drowsy Eyes" 

Must sleep dear one, till night is done, 
And sun bids folks arise. 



27 



PLAYMATES 

The birds were singing sweetly 
One warm bright springtime day, 

When Arthur Brown and May Smith, 
Resolved to join in play. 

They tried many childish games, 

Until their mothers thought, 
That each had sufficient play. 

So ended that day's sport. 

The two became quite friendly, 

They grew up side by side, 
And on one warm, bright spring day 

Miss Smith became a bride. 

None other than that playmate 
Could e'er have won her heart. 

For she loved him ever since 
In play they first took part. 

Playmates they were in their youth, 

Now they are man and wife, 
Let us hope that as playmates 

They'll journey all thro' life. 



28 



SUMMER DAY 

O, perfect summer day, 
Full of song and fun, 
What joys you bring to us 
Through your pleasant sun; 
The beauty that before us lies. 
Flowers fair and butterflies. 
Birds with music bubbling over. 
Bumble bee, humming rover, 
Rippling brook that runs along, 
Singing e'er its laughing song. 
Sky of blue with perfect glow. 
Pleasant zephyrs as they blow. 
Make us wish, sweet summer day, 
That you ne'er would pass away. 



29 



ON THE SHORE AT NIGHT 

'Tis night upon the rolling sea, 
The waves break on the shore, 

And rippling o'er the silvery sand, 
They lose their surging roar. 

In foam the waves come dashing in, 

Then run up on the land, 
And spend their strength in broken lines, 

Then sink into the sand, 

So regular is the motion, 

A rhythm seems to mark 
The crested waves as they roll in 

From ocean's bed so dark. 



3<^ 



A WOOD CONCERT 

A dear little brook bubbled 

As it sped on its way 
Through the cool, shady woodland, 

On a bright summer day. 

On its banks sweet wildflowers, 

All in a brilliant line. 
Swayed this way and swayed that way 

To the brook music fine. 

There were flowers with trumpets 

Which they blew constantly 
That their friends from all quarters 

Might assist in the glee. 

The birds, bees and butterflies, 

To the concert made way. 
And the whole woodland echoed 

With sweet song all the day. 

The time passed by so swiftly. 

By the side of the brook. 
That the shadows of evening 

Their pleasure overtook. 

They all said "Good Night" hurriedly, 
Then each one homeward went 

With life sweeter, happier. 
By the pleasant day spent. 



31 



LADY-BUG 

Lady-bug, Lady-bug 
Painted red and black, 

What pretty wing-covers 
You have on your back. 

Oh, do not be afraid, 
I will not harm you, 

Your beautiful body, 
I would like to view. 

Oh, you draw up your feet, 
Pretend you are dead 

Now, I know that's a trick, 
You're frightened instead, 

Well, fly off to your home 
You wise little thing 

You wee speckled beauty 
With shining red wing. 



32 



AUTUMN 

The purple and gold of autumn, 

Of aster and golden-rod, 
Of thistle and marigold, 

In field and meadow nod. 

Golden tassels in the corn-fields 
And also the binded sheaves 

Blend with the hues all about 
And tinge of turning leaves. 

The burrs and the pods prolific 

Of burdock and dear milkweed 

Glory in autumn's sunlight 
In burnished wood and mead. 

Autumn, the time for ripening 
Of product of vine and tree 

Holds many a loving thought 
For dear humanity. 

Through the clear sunny weather 
So many sweet charms spring up, 

A bird, an insect, or leaf. 
Or seed-laden flower-cup. 

Crickets' continuous chorus 

Adds a somewhat plaintive strain 

To the closing of plant-life 
By its steady refrain. 



33 



OCTOBER 

Hark! October's here at last 
With her red and yellow 

And her host of ripe nuts brown, 
Pears and apples mellow. 

Softly fall the tired leaves, 
Exposing branches bare, 

Saying as they flutter down 
"Of fun we've had our share." 

'Tis true, summer was jolly, 
We wish 'twould last always. 

As now with its departure 
Come cold and frosty days. 

Now that the pleasure's over 
All nature says "Good-bye!" 

Till summer comes round again 
With birds and flowers nigh. 



34 



TO CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS 

Oh, hero of times when science was narrow, 

And few cared to grant thee the justice due 
To thy wonderful perception and lead it onward 

To where 'twould be proven undoubtedly true! 
Thy hopes so long cherished and thy conceptions, 

How often were they by derision made base. 
But what with thy modesty and self-confidence, 

Sentiment did not thy fine genius efface. 

Assailed by treachery and disappointment 

Whenever thy project was brought to view 
Who would dare champion thy wonderful enter- 
prise 

Wlien those in thy favor were so very few? 
What then with vague and neglected promises 

Would have been thy most deplorable fate, 
Who must have been chosen by heavenly mission 

To influence science and man's future state. 

How thou didst love thy few loyal adherents 

Who ever admired thy patience sweet! 
And 'tis to these thou owest thy glorious conquest 

Whereby bitter prejudice thou didst defeat. 
Oh well we know thy contemptible reward 

For bringing so much to the notice of men, 
Yet, as the world's science grows broader and broad- 
er, 

All people shall praise thee again and again. 



35 



THE TREES 

In spring the trees are in a hurry 

To put on their greenest dress, 
They search their trunks, and find their frills, 

And all their ruffles press. 

All through the bright blue summer weather. 
They wear the self-same green gown, 

And the constant use makes the dress fade. 
Then the trees begin to frown. 

They do not like the faded garments. 

So they for some others sigh, 
They do not know that green's the hue 

So restful to the human eye. 

In a short while Jack Frost comes about. 

And makes a wonderful change, 
He snatches away their leaf-green robes, 

And a color scale doth arrange. 

And the trees that were in a hurry 
To change their faded spring dress 

Perhaps would keep, if they could, the green 
Instead of branches leafless. 

Yet I think the trees know their purpose. 

And give up their dresses old. 
Taking a rest while summoning strength, 

For new leaf-buds manifold. 



36 



FALL FLOWERS 

Sunflower and goldenrod 

Come with the fall, 
Swaying and nodding 

On their green stalks tall. 
Yellow buttercup polished, 

And mullen pale, 
Add their golden hue 

To wood, field and vale. 
Gay asters by the wayside, 
Some white, some blue, 
Nod gently to all. 

Who their beauty view. 
Soon many fall flowers 

Going to seed 
Will put their babies 

To sleep in the mead. 
A dry blanket of brown leaves, 

Then one of snow 
Will cover the seeds 

While winter winds blow. 
The coaxing sunbeams of spring, 

The gentle rain. 
Will waken the seeds 
In meadow and lane. 



37 



ON HALLOWE'EN 

We gather round the fireside 

On this the "Vigil of All Saints," 

And oft practice superstition 

Of whose impulse we still show taints. 

The names of our future sweethearts, 
What fortunes, or dangers prevail, 

Are some matters whose influence 
Hallowe'en pretends to unveil. 

The young folks act such weirdly pranks, 
And play sportive mischievous jokes 

On one and all, from great to small. 
Of simple unsuspecting folks. 

Whate'er of supernatural 

May appear on this splendid sphere, 
We all enjoy this festival. 

Its ceremonies we revere. 



38 



AUTUMN COLORS 

A clear blue sky, some grass still green, 
Gay foliaged trees in red. 
And others touched in russet hue 
Whose leaves will soon be dead ; 
The meadows yellowed by the sun. 
Where still are wild flowers growing 
Red, yellow, orange, and deep blue. 
On Autumn's landscape showing. 
The beautiful, trailing bittersweet, 
Its clusters of red berries 
Still clinging to the old mother-vine 
Looking like wee cherries, 
Scarlet and gold of distant trees, 
Peering through the smoky haze. 
Hanging over meadow and woodland, 
Show colors of Autumn days. 



39 



IN LATE OCTOBER 

The aster and golden-rod to seed have grown, 
And the leaves from the Maple long since have 

blown, 
The song birds of summer to warmer clime flown, 
For frost chills October air. 

Grasshoppers, caterpillars, dragon-flies too. 
All the brilliant flutterers who served our view 
Have changed their headquarters, though sky is 

quite blue 
And frost chills October air. 

Soon Nature's summer children will be at rest, 
Sweet feathery wood-warblers in southern nest, 
Tortoise, frog, snake, toad, hide in place that is best, 
For frost chills October air. 



40 



DANCING 

There is aye a deal of talk 
Of the proper way to walk; 
Some will e'er their feet abuse 
Wearing most distorting shoes. 

To the rescue comes the dance 
In the two-step, glide or prance, 
Where the feet, gladsomely free, 
Trip and step most easily. 

No more stalking, shapeless feet, 
Now that dancing's most discreet; 
'Tis sure to bring refined grace, 
Well-poised chest and youthful face. 



41 



WATCH YOUR STEP 

"Watch your step!" the old folks say 

As you start out in the morn 
Knowing not with how much good 

Or ill the day is born. 

"Watch your step!" say faithful men 
When they see you make advance 

To enter or alight from 
Your chosen conveyance. 

"Watch your step!" your good kind friends 

Are saying everywhere, 
Reminding you that mishap 

May catch you unaware. 

"Watch your step!" you hear ever 
From your own severe conscience, 

But do you give its warning 
The proper precedence? 

"Watch your step !" would be a phrase 
To our poor hearts most dear 

If we only stopped to heed 
Its feeling so sincere. 



42 



HONESTY 

A little lad was standing, 

Near a vender's fruit stock, fine, 

When a juicy pear rolled off its perch 
And he thought. "That pear is mine." 

"The man will never miss it, 

He has so many others, 
I'll take it home and give a piece 

To both my little brothers." 

He picked up the splendid pear 

And gazed, and gazed upon it; 
It seemed to say in a knowing way 

That he had no right to it. 

His conscience was urging him 

To return it to the man 
Who did not know that the pear had dropped 

Though the goods he oft did scan. 

So the young lad stood a while, 

Reluctant to give it back, 
For it was such a ripe tempting pear, 

It made his very lips smack. 

At last he went up to the man, 

And said, "Sir, here's a pear 
That fell off when you weren't looking, 

I found it over there." 

"Thank you boy, you may keep it 

For being good and honest," 
And oh, what a satisfied feeling 

Entered into the little boy's breast. 



43 



THE SQUIRREL 

His nest is in a hollow tree 

All safely hid from storm; 
In winter he may rest secure, 

His coat of fur is warm. 

He runs and plays in summer-time, 

But soon as comes the fall, 
He gathers acorns, twigs, and bark. 

And seeds of pine-tree tall. 

Sometimes he is a naughty lad. 
He steals the farmer's wheat. 

And 'tis quite true, he has been known, 
A poor bird's eggs to eat. 



44 



STORY OF A BEAN 

I'll tell you a story, a true story too, 

Of a little white bean, and the way it grew ; 

I procured a strong box and filled it with mold, 

Then planted the white bean, that it might unfold. 

The bright sunshine streamed down and warmed 

the bean's bed, 
The rain-drops they pattered right over its head, 
The little bean murmured, "What's that noise for?" 
And soon it concluded to open its door. 

It sent up a soldier all dressed in green, bold, 
While another went down to search through the 

mold ; 
'Twas so pleasant above, the healthy stem green 
Fell in love with the change and what it had seen. 

It wired a message — "Send up some food here, 
For I'm not coming back, send the children dear;" 
Up came some leaf children, then blossoms that nod. 
Each one followed later by well-stocked bean-pod. 

I pulled up the bean plant, one late Autumn day. 
And found nothing to show where once a bean lay, 
Yet 'tis a true sto^y, how a single seed 
Produces its own kind, many times, indeed. 



43 



TO THE BIRDS 

(Autumn) 

Little birdies, fly away, 
For you may no longer stay. 
All too harsh is winter's wind, 
And your food is hard to find. 

All the flowers lay asleep, 
And the dead leaves in a heap 
Cover up with help of snow 
Seeds that in the spring may grow. 

Meadows, fields, and woodlands bare, 
That were once so green and fair. 
Serve you not, and you must go 
Far away from cold and snow. 

In the spring when all is fair, 

Come back minstrels of the air 

To awake the seeds and flowers 

Midst bright sunshine and soft showers. 



46 



IN NOVEMBER 

The trees are bare of leaves, 

But see those trunks sturdy, 
From which large boughs stretch outward. 

As if the world to see. 

You see that smaller boughs 

From larger ones must grow, 
And hold and rock winter-buds, 

Till sap in spring doth flow. 

Bare trees afford lessons 

Of nature's providence ; 
For all her children's labor. 

Rest is the recompense. 



47 



THE PROPER WAY 

If you would be loved, be friendly 
And help make this life bright; 

Show courtesy true in all you do, 
Be a pleasure, not a blight. 

Be faithful to your fellowmen, 

Your trustiness profound; 
Your good will extend and always lend 

Wholesome charity unbound. 

Be ready to baffle failure 
With courage and loyalty. 

Regarding each task that life may ask, 
As a proffered royalty. 

Listen to your own strict conscience 
Which prompts you to be brave, 

And to reverence, obedience. 
Be ever a humble slave. 



48 



ACHIEVEMENT 

Would you be a help to the world, Sir? 
A model for future men? 
Be honest in all that you do, Sir, 
Ever struggling for virtue true, Sir, 
Impartial in judgment toward men. 

The duties you owe to society, Sir, 
Call for intelligent propriety, Sir, 
Administration based on unbiased truth. 
Example for present and future youth,* 
With charity, glory of men. 



49 



THE ORATOR 

As he stood, his sturdy figure 
Filled our hearts with reverence, 

And his forcible expressions 

Convinced us of his eloquence. 

His utterances, all aflame, 

Held his listeners as per force. 

Eager lest they miss the keynote 
Of his vigorous discourse. 

His philosophy of the problems 
Which disturb government to-day, 

Impressed all, as slowly, clearly. 
He summoned up a true survey. 

When the splendid speech was ended, 
The members of the audience 

Expressed their enthusiasm 

In the most pleasing comments. 



50 



THANKSGIVING DAY 

Welcome the harvest festival, 

Our dear Thanksgiving Day! 
Oh pleasant realization 

Of splendid feast and play! 
The plans of indulgent parents 

To afford supremest cheer 
To each member of the family 

Make this memorable day most dear. 

Such picturesque decorations, 

Are displayed everywhere! 
Autumnal hues predominate, 

Fall scents imbue the air. 
Our hearts are filled with sentiments 

Of the tenderest fond frame 
Mingled with dreams of the garnished feast, 

Thanksiving's traditional flame. 

Oh, pleasure fashioned by parents! 

Devotion is displayed 
In each and every festal charm 

Your sacrifices made. 
May all future Thanksgiving Days 

Bring forth many rich bequests 
Through the precious grace of gratitude 

Of these children, your sacred guests. 



51 



THE SNOW 

Oh snowflakes soft, and purely white, 

Now, will you truly tell, 
How you happened to come to us. 

And why it is you fell? 

"The north wind blew so cold last night, 
We froze completely through, 

So we put on these white dresses. 
And came down here to you. 

We knew the seeds and roots of plants 

Needed a blanket warm. 
So, softly to the earth we fell. 

White-starred in flaky form. 

Some day we'll go back to our home, 

In water-dust you know, 
And when north wind gets very cross, 

We'll freeze again to snow." 



52 



OUR SEASONS 

Who does not love the early spring, 
When skies are blue, and soft the air, 
And song-birds northward returning 
Seek nesting-places here and there? 
The blossoms burst forth on fruit-trees. 
And leaflets come, and if you please, 
The daintiest carpet, as 'twere for these, 
Is spreading out everywhere. 

Who doesn't love the bright summer. 
With its hopeful garden and field 
Of beautiful flowers and wholesome grain, 
That the season's processes yield? 
The vision of autumn supplies. 
That in our keen minds oft arise, 
When nature's providence before us lies, 
Does a sense of dependence wield. 

Grateful we are for all pleasures 
Which the seasons bring to mankind — 
The modest spring, brilliant summer, 
Golden autumn, in which we find 
Nature's beauty and true richness 
In wondrous blend of tinted dress, 
Preceding the winter whose gifts possess 
The wealth of the whole year combined. 



53 



IN DECEMBER 

Oh, dear old year, why is It so 
That you must join the "Long Ago?" 
You, who have oft cheered my poor heart. 
Why is it so, that we must part? 

So many years have gone your way 
That could no longer with me stay, 
I think that fate must be unkind 
To put good years so far behind. 

Yet, ere you go fore'er and aye. 
And I your footsteps cannot stay, 
I must say this, my earnest prayer 
Is that coming years may be as fair. 



54 



LOVE'S LABOR IS NOT LOST 

There's Christmas in the very air 

We're breathing nowadays, 
Each heart intent on showing love 

In ever so many ways. 

From the youngest member of the house. 

Up to beloved Grandpa, 
The sense of giving radiates 

And reaches out afar. 

Each one remembering the others 

In thoughtful, timely way. 
And though the cost a trifle be. 

Love does a strong part play. 

The spirit will long survive the gift. 

No matter what the cost. 
And Christmas now, and e'er will prove 

"Love's labor is not lost." 



55 



JUST BEFORE CHRISTMAS 

On the window-pane the frost, 

Sleigh-bells tinkling a refrain, 
Just enough of snow and ice 

In the highway, in the lane. 
A cold wind that briskly blows. 

Making red each cheek and ear, 
Remind us it is winter-time 

And Christmas Day is very near. 

Greens and holly, wreaths and sprays, 

Trees of hemlock, fir and spruce. 
Stores well-filled with choicest stocks,- 

Toys and articles of use — 
Tell the story of glad Christmas 

With its host of heartfelt joys, 
Time for all to exchange presents, 

Time to indulge in jolly noise. 



56 



SUN IN WINTER 

In winter the sun is lazy, 

He hates to get out of his bed, 

And when he arrives for breakfast, 
With sleep his face is still red. 

Yet he knows he is quite welcome, 

No matter how sleepy he be. 
So he just does as he wishes, 

A great big spoiled child is he. 

He has a newspaper before him, 
And he reads whatever took place. 

Since last night he went to bed tired; 
Important events he can trace. 

In black and white he finds footprints 
Of bunny leaping through snow 

To find where some choice bits of cabbage, 
Ann out of the kitchen did throw. 

Then Mr. Fox has been prowling 
Round slyly to see if he could 

Get a fine chicken to carry 

To his young babes in the wood. 

He can see where the dear squirrels 
And snowbirds were scratching about 

To get enough seeds for a meal, 
Ere he himself had come out. 

Bye and bye he spoils the paper. 
And before he takes his next nap, 

The fragments will have been hidden 
In the basket, the earth's wide lap. 



57 



IN OLD SCOTLAND 

Long years ago ere kings or queens 

Ruled in Bonnie Scotland, 
The clans or tribes wore woolen plaids, 

All in the Scottish Highland. 

Each clan with its own bright design 

Of woolen plaid heavy. 
Defied the roughest of weather 

With tartan and kilt bonnie. 

A rugged race these clansmen were. 

Each tribe with a costume 
Of firmest kind of warp and woof 

Produced from the simplest loom. 

We have a Highlander's picture, 
He's dressed in kilt and shawl, 

A quaint cap too, and low cut shoe. 
On his knees, nothing at all. 

I think he would have been frozen 

If he dared venture out 
With naked knees, exposed to breeze, 

As cold as we know about. 



58 



IN WINTERTIME 

Winter has a mammoth share 
In the hearts of girls and boys, 

For what with all its holidays 
It brings us countless joys. 

Glad Christmas and New Year's Day, 

The great anniversaries 
We celebrate in wintertime — 

What joy involved in these! 

Frolicking in the snow and ice 
Makes healthy innocent sports. 

We older ones sleighing, skating. 
The younger ones building forts. 

The bright indoor occasions, 

Which bring us winter pleasure, 

Would take a vast surveying plant 
Their fund of mirth to measure. 



59 



A BLIZZARD 

Storm King lately grew lonesome 
And thought he'd come to town 

And gain the highest favor 
By presenting a new gown. 

How he must have spun and wove 

From dark until daylight, 
To ever have completed 

This glistening robe of white! 

A splendid form of landscape, 

One never yet outdone 
By skill of human artist 

Is this by Storm King spun. 

Indeed, we enjoy the scene, 

Yet, truly glad are we, 
When good, kind, helpful sunshine 

Makes icy Storm King flee. 



60 



AFTER THE WEARY DAY 

After a long and weary day 

Ofttimes oppressive, unblest, 
What renewed strength we may obtain, 

Refreshments for spirit distressed. 
Rest for exhausted energy 

By an act of the sweetest love, 
If we turn our thoughts to Him, 

Our Heavenly Father Above. 

Howe'er distracting our task, 

Howe'er exhausting the labor, 
Howe'er disconsolate our friends, 

Howe'er unkindly our neighbor. 
At the end of day we seek Him, 

Our most tried, yet truest friend! 
And we get relief from pain and grief, 

Through the graces He doth extend. 



6i 



PUSS 

Puss lies by the fireside 

As cozy as can be 
Dreaming that she has a mouse, 

All plump, sweet, and juicy! 

Mousie peeps out from his house 
And smells some dainties fine, 

"Ha," he thinks, "This is my chance, 
Now I shall richly dine," 

Softly, softly, creeps mousie! 

The sleepy cat he sees. 
He is not at all frightened, 

He only thinks of cheese. 

A stir, a dart, a scamper, 
And mouse is pussy's prey. 

Just as she dreamt, a fat mouse 
Happened to come her way. 

Poor mousie's splendid vision 

Is but a simple dream. 
And when puss springs after him, 

All he can do is scream. 

Puss has ears so sensitive 
She hears the slightest sound, 

And that is why a mousie 
Should wisely look around. 

Puss is so very active 

She can spring instantly, 
And catch her prey with sharp claws. 

Whatever it may be. 

62 



Oh! Puss is a cruel one 
To some smaller creatures, 

Yet some folks like cats for pets, 
With their savage features. 



63 



A WINTER SUNSET 

The setting sun is glorious, 

It floods the world with light; 

The bare, brown trees against the sky 
Present a beautiful sight. 

The earth with color seems to glow, 

The snow turns violet, 
The pine trees appear much darker 

Against rosy-hued sunset. 

We gaze at the changing colors. 

Slowly the flood subsides. 
Then gray of winter evening comes. 

And sunset's rich beauty hides. 



64 



THE OLD YEAR 

The old year is dead and gone! 

Was it firm or was it tame? 
Will the deeds we enacted 

Bring us honor or mere shame? 

'Tis gone and its passing says 
"Think of the struggle ahead, 

Last year you tried to be strong 
But you became faint instead." 

Oh, so it is with each year, 
The good or ill must remain 

To bless or soil our poor souls, 
To beautify or to stain. 

Whatever of evil existed 

Throughout the old year's length, 
Let our new resolutions 

Change that weakness into strength. 



65 



FAREWELL, OLD YEAR 

Farewell old year, farewell we say. 
And let the new year find its way, 
With just as much of love and cheer, 
As you diffused, you kind, old year. 

Your night has now reached its eclipse 
While these fond words fall from our lips, 
"Farewell, old year, and may God bless 
The coming year with happiness." 



66 



SMILES 

Who likes a long sad face? 

Smiles are what we need 
Tears and woe are wearisome, 

To dolefulness they lead. 

There's enough grief abroad, 

Misfortune visits, 
One or another in turn. 

She e'er in some home sits. 

Be strong and bear trouble, 

Your suffering hide 
Beneath the shield of laughter, 

Cast grief and pain aside. 

Better it is to smile. 

And help make life bright. 

Sympathy is e'er ready 

To make burdens seem light. 



67 



SUCCESS 

Getting over difficulties 

Which beset your path, 
Forgetting harsh ridicule, 

Not giving way to wrath, 
Cancelling doubt with firm courage, 

No time for idleness, 
Will bring to you sweet peace and light. 

And crown you with success. 

The energy which you put forth 

To ever do your best 
To improve each opportunity 

With a strong, fervent zest. 
No recollection of lost hope 

To make the resolve less. 
As you render earnest service, 

Will lead up to success. 

The sweet peace and confidence 

Which mark a happy life. 
Never come from sad forebodings 

Nor continuous strife. 
But are the triumphant glories 

Of energy endless. 
Perseverance bringing joy, 

Certainty and success. 



68 



AT THE NEW YEAR GATE 

All are anxiously awaiting 
What the future has in store 

As we leave the old year's shadows 
To enter the new year's door. 

Dare we pass within the threshold? 

Shall we see a shining light 
That will lead us to a knowledge 

Of a year, heroic, bright? 

Lest we weaken at the doorstep 

Since we cannot see afar. 
Let no bygone disappointments 

This year's trust or patience mar. 

'Tis a blessing — the denial 

To see clearly the unrest 
Of a future, dark, unpleasant, 

Days hard-earned, perhaps unblest. 

May each day be a firm battle 
Toward a future treasured state 

And another year's achievements. 
Leading upward from this gate. 



69 



SOMEWHERE 

Somewhere there is too much greed, 
Not enough of kindly deed ; 
Somewhere too much fault is found 
And too much crushing to the ground ; 
Somewhere too, harsh enmity 
Leads to rash hostility. 

Somewhere sweet words scent the air, 
Smiles like sunshine make life fair; 
Somewhere hearts are e'er giving 
Love that makes life well worth living. 
Somewhere souls are filled with song 
Helping others to get along. 

If the world seems full of woe 
'Tis ourselves who make it so ; 
Why not brighten some life sad. 
Bring to it sunshine pure and glad ; 
Smiles and sentiments of cheer 
Will e'er banish distress and fear. 



70 



IN FEBRUARY 

The bitter sting of the wintry blast 
As the icy flakes fall thick and fast 
A blizzard controlling the atmosphere 
Remind us that "Jack Frost's still here." 

A crystal coat on the rocks and trees, 
The mournful tone of every breeze, 
The slippery pavements, both far and near, 
Remind us that "Jack Frost's still here." 

Icicles hung from sheds and housetops. 
Children of sun and melting snowdrops, 
In perilous state, oft bringing us fear, 
Remind us that "Jack Frost's still here. 



71 



TEMPTATION AND CONSCIENCE 

Always at war with each other, 
Temptation and conscience pure, 

The one trying to keep us in darkness. 
The other our safety to insure. 

Temptation forever aiming 

To put out the loving light 
Of conscience that e'er seeks our protection 

And points to the way that is most right. 

Don't choose that source of all trouble, 
Temptation who makes folks blind. 

Let conscience who warns you of all dangers 
Always control your heart and your mind. 



72 



ON ST. VALENTINE'S DAY 

To-day, the day for love tokens, 
Fills us with abundant cheer 

As the postman blows his whistle 
To let us know he is near. 

The messenger smiles knowingly 
Ere he from the gate departs, 

And the sentimental missives 
Touch tenderly our hearts. 

Our tell-tale eyes reveal the fact 
And our blushes quite declare 

That a sweetheart, an admirer, 
A valentine dwells somewhere. 



73 



GOOD WILL 

Good-will is better than talent 
For it will surely bring success; 

The earnest service which you give 
Is an advantage to business. 

Your patrons will have confidence, 
Acknowledging your thoroughness, 

When you serve them with right good-will, 
The first principle of success. 

Good-will brings true satisfaction, 
'Tis the safest investment made. 

And is the foundation secure 

On which life's success should be laid. 



74 



GEORGE WASHINGTON 

What name calls forth the awe of men, 
The praise of each enlightened son? 

What name is stamped upon our hearts 
So fixedly as Washington? 

What virtue crowned his great career ? 

What spirit moved him on and on? 
What power urged him in our cause? 

We know 'twas truth with Washington. 

His firm desire to help all men 
To break the chains of dominion, 

Was centered round the principle, 

"Truth and freedom must e'er be one." 

With truth as herald all virtues 
Just followed in a friendly line, — 

Patience, order, observation, 

And prayer to make men's work benign. 

Indeed, this land was down-trodden, 
Oppression held the fullest sway, 

WTien up rose he, truth's advocate, 
George Washington and saved the day. 



75 



FAIREST OF BANNERS. 

Shine, oh shine, in endless glory. 
Splendid flag, red, white and blue, 

Be the guiding light of freemen, 
A nation's sons who'd die for you. 

Shine, oh shine on land and ocean, 
Emblem fair that we behold, 

May no darkness ever gather, 

That might sully one single fold. 

Shine, oh shine, fairest of banners. 
All your children join in song. 

Lauding loud your many virtues. 
Patriots brave, a mighty throng. 



76 



TO OUR BANNER 

Hail, thou banner, stars and stripes! 

That stand for sweet liberty 
May thy sons e'er prove brave heroes 

In firmest defense of thee. 

They have proven men of wisdom 
Whene'er 'twas time to show tact, 

And thou owest thy great glory 
To many a timely act. 

Flag that hast unbounded power 

Over all this happy land, 
Mayst thou ever be the watchward 

Of the world's most noble band. 



77 



NEW STATES, NEW STARS 

Let all Columbia's children 

Their country's honor guard, 
As in days oif old their ancestors. 

With struggle long and hard, 
Defended this great Republic, 

Saved it from disruption. 
And now this happiest of lands 

Is one immense Union. 

Let Freedom reign o'er this domain 

No matter what its girth, 
New resources and new processes 

To new states will give birth, 
So that Columbia's banner 

Will brighten with the years. 
As each new state is ushered in, 

And one more star appears. 



78 



FAIR LAND OF COLUMBIA 

Fair Land of Columbia, 
Sweet Land of the Free, 

Countless were the hearts 
That were loyal to thee. 

Fair Land of Columbia, 
Thou wert the just pride 

Of all thy fond sons, 
A host solemnly tried. 

Fair Land of Columbia, 

May thy living sons 
Prove firmly valiant 

As the departed ones. 

Fair Land of Columbia, 

With God at the helm 
To guide thy children. 

Blest e'er be thy realm. 



79 



THE AMERICAN BANNER 

Up, up, up, hoist that banner high 
Let its stars and stripes resplendent. 

As it were with heavenly dye, 
Become a picture in the sky. 

Up, up, up, hold that banner bright, 
Let its splendid folds stretch proudly 

Out into the golden sunlight. 

And make a most imposing sight. 

Up, up, up, keep that banner fair. 
Let the pure breeze play upon it. 

Illumed its stars in highest air, 
There's no other flag can compare. 



80 



THE HERO'S FLAG 

In this land of the free 
Are brave men and true, 

Ever ready to die 

For the Red, White, and Blue. 

When unfurled in the breeze, 
The stripes, red and white, 

And the blue field of stars 
Present a splendid sight, 

The flag of our heroes, 

Beautiful to see 
O, long may its colors 

Wave victoriously. 



EXAMPLE 

We all are teachers silent 

In what we say or do, 
We make or mar some other, 

Through each error or virtue. 

No act so indifferent 

But it may leave its trace, 

Of good or ill to others. 
Lowly or high our place. 

Remember each word and deed 

Toward humanity, 
Is a powerful lesson 

Of firm truth or falsity. 



82 



INDUSTRY 

There are a few of the human race 

Not obliged to labor; 
These never know life's usefulness — 

Man's true love for neighbor. 

How we should love those who e'er employ 
The strength which they possess 

To force products for man's welfare 
From out the earth's fullness 

Noble are they through whose daily toil 

The earth is made to give 
Its many fruits for our comfort 

While on this sphere we live. 

The best results, truest perfection, 
The nation's wealth and power 

Come from man's steady patient toil. 
Measured from hour to hour. 



83 



THE BEAR 

During winter he lies asleep 
In his dark cave in the wood 

Existing on his body's fat 

Awaiting the spring time good. 

When the winter passes away, 
Hungry and cross he awakes 

And growls, and grunts and stretches, 
And then his great body shakes, 

Out he goes to pleasant sunshine 
Eager to find wholesome fare 

For he is so lean and hungry 
No fat on him anywhere. 

Perhaps a mate and two wee cubs 
Must too with food be supplied 

So out upon a great forage 
He goes on every side. 

'Tis best not to encounter him 
When he is in the starving state, 

His claws, teeth, and heavy set limbs, 
Are violent weapons great. 



84 



IN SPRING 

In spring the sap begins to flow 

Up to the bud babies 
That ever since the leaves fell down, 

Have stayed upon the trees. 

As soon as water in the root 
And in the stem doth thaw, 

The baby buds begin to swell. 
Each day a little more. 

Mother Nature then develops 
The blossoms and leaflets; 

Softening buds, removing scales, 
From these, her little pets. 

No better time is there than spring. 
Divine thoughts to impress. 

Of nature's care and protection. 
And awakening process. 



85 



IN MARCH 

Oh, how winter loves to linger 

Where he long has held full sway, 
Yet in spite of all his planning. 

He must soon to spring give way. 
For the days have grown much longer 

Since he had his longest night, 
And the world is getting brighter, 

Waking up through force of light. 

All the mother trees are ready, 

Their dear children to display. 
Just as soon as Miss Springweather 

Says she has returned to stay. 
"Just a little longer darlings," 

Say the mothers, kind and dear, 
"And your friends, the golden sunbeams, 

Will clear up this atmosphere." 

"Then the birds will give their music 

And the brook will sing its song. 
While on pleasant breezes wafted, 

Fragrant scents will float along, 
And long ere summer is over 

All shall know much love and cheer 
E'en though winter has been trying 

To delay springtime this year." 



86 



FORTITUDE 

Is life burdensome — have patience 

And bear nobly your share 
Of pain and sorrow, till the morrow, 

When the world will wake more fair. 

Does life seem drudgery — have fortitude, 

And harB tasks will grow light. 
The strength you gain by your bravery 

Will help make your sphere more bright. 

Life's duties will become pleasures, 

If you act without fear. 
With hopefulness, heroic energy. 

And strong, pure thoughts ever near. 



87 



ON ST. PATRICK'S DAY 

To-day we feel a deep, deep love, 

A sort of veneration, 
For the name we hear on every tongue, 

The pride of a fond nation. 
Cherished now and forevermore 

With a patience and a zeal, 
That is the trait of his countrymen. 

Their affection fervently real. 

Sweet memorable strains of music 

Are heard on every side. 
And pleasant pictures of childhood days, — 

Exiles' fondest, purest pride — 
Recall lessons of affection 

Instilled into each young heart, 
Love for him, their country's apostle, 

Which their forefathers did impart. 

The world loves the noble nation. 

Its flag of emerald green. 
Its shamrock with its blossoms sunny, 

And its isle, historic scene 
Of a people long down-trodden, 

May justice soon grant the day 
When this land of patriotic souls 

May the part of Republic play. 



88 



THE PUSSYWILLOW 

Pussywillow by the brook, 

I know how you grow, 
First a bud of chestnut brown 

Lives through winter's snow, 
Then when warmer days appear 

You with life must glow 
For I see your color change 

Fur as white as snow 
Peeps forth from the snug brown scale. 

The next thing you do 
Is to discard your dark coat, 

Then you're changed, quite true. 
And blush at your rapid growth, 

So great is your weight, 
Twill carry you far away 

From your present state. 
To fall to the soft, damp earth. 

That's your future state 
Yet you'll leave your tracks behind, — 

We'll find pussies dear 
All dressed in prettiest fur 

On this bush next year. 



8y 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD 

(Sailors of the Maine, March 3rd, 1912) 

Ah, well may we mourn the loss 
Of those who are snatched away 

Without a moment's warning, 

What stealth does mishap e'er play. 

A steady downpour of rain 

Falls upon each uncovered head 

As hundreds stand to witness 
The burial of the "dead." 

The occasion wrings strong tears 
From the heavens and from men, 

As thoughts of the tragedy 
Come to mortal minds again. 

Solemn indeed the hour 

When we must dear ones inter. 

To whom we owe true respect 
And on whom must praise confer. 

"May heaven shed soothing peace. 
And immortal wreaths entwine, 

About your souls, dear beloved, 
Your reward must be divine." 



90 



IN THE WOOD 

As I was walking through a wood 
I heard the queerest sound 

And wondering what it might be 
I intently looked around. 

Suddenly I heard a flutter, 

I saw an owl fly by 
And at the hollow in a tree 

He lighted and blinked his eye. 

I knew he must have made that noise 

Through some anxiety 
And so I waited still about 

In curiosity. 

Ha! Ha! I found out his secret, — 
That hollow was his nest, 

I could hear the owlets crying. 
Their efforts were their best. 

Perhaps hunger caused the trouble; 

I brought them some fine meat; 
The parent birds and children dear 

Indulged in the welcome treat. 



91 



SERVICE 

Do you give your share of service 
As the days go rolling past? 

Do you pay your debt to the world 
With helpfulness that will last? 

Don't await glorious service 

That may never come your way, 

Share as many of the chances 
As you can to aid each day. 

Just help others cross rough places 
When they ask your kindly aid, 

And consider such a service 
As a privilege repaid. 

Be quite glad to render service, 

For 'tis only by such deeds 
That the world will e'er grow brighter, 

Loving help each mortal needs. 



92 



MARCH WIND 

Hark ! do you hear the March Wind 

As he drives around ? 
Blustering breezes come in gusts, 

Echoes gruffly resound. 

He pipes his tune all the day, 

And all night he drums; 
You can hear him tap the window 

Until the daylight comes. 

He is a saucy fellow. 

He makes such a noise; 
Ofttimes he causes confusion, 

By the force he employs. 

The balmy air, the freezing blast, 

Are all part of him; 
The fitful currents oft collide, 

Each one brimful of vim. 

March Wind is the medium 
Through which the birds tell 

Just when to change their quarters, 
Come northwardly to dwell. 

And though he is boisterous, 

Blessings he doth bring. 
He wakens seeds and roots and buds, 

The promises of spring. 



93 



OUR DONKEY 

Our donkey's a dear little fellow, 
All covered with rough black hair; 

His short straight tail makes a fine brush, 
Which he can turn here and there. 

He has a white nose and small bright eyes, 

And such long, sensitive ears, 
That at the least sound that happens. 

Donkey most restless appears. 

He has strong white teeth, in a straight row, 

But never attempts to bite. 
We treat him kindly, feed him well, 

And give him shelter at night. 

Sometimes we take turns donkey-riding. 

We do not make him go fast; 
He knows when 'tis time to return. 

How long the journey should last. 

We love our wise little donkey. 

We know he is not so strong. 
So we never make him tired. 

To abuse him would be wrong. 



94 



ICEBERGS 

Far to the north are the glaciers 
Which send forth an iceberg fleet, 

Ready to crush the mightiest vessel, 
It may in collision meet. 

The treacherous fleet from this shipyard. 

Sails forth in an icy chain 
And drifting, may crash, like a raging mass, 

As it plies the surging main. 

Unmanned is it, yet it makes its way, 
On destruction dread, quite bent. 

And it fears no gale, and many a crew, 
To the ocean's bed has sent. 



9S 



THE GOLDEN SUN 

How the golden sun o'erhead 

Spurs us on to-day, 
Making life a round of joy, 

Driving dark care away. 

The flowers grow much fairer. 

Scents more exquisite, 
Through the force of golden sun, 

How much they benefit. 

Strong, pure thoughts fill us with love, 

Banish pain and sin, 
When the smiling sun is here. 

And we its warmth drink in. 

Burdens, duties, and crosses, 

Seem to grow lighter 
When the glorious sunshine. 

Makes our pathways brighter. 



96 



FRIENDSHIP 

There is nothing as good as friendship, 

Unselfish in respect and care, 
Willing hands and hearts ever ready 

To gladden and make our lives fair. 

Friendship's bond w^ill help us bear trouble 
And make smooth our ruffled pathway. 

When we meet with pain overwhelming 
On some ill-fated future day. 

Then in most loving recognition 

Of true friendship's strengthening power 
Let us guard this lovely quality 

As an eternal, precious flower. 



97 



VIOLET! VIOLET! 

Violet! violet! 

Come out of your bed, 
Open your dear eye, 

And lift up your head. 

Sweet little violet! 

Your petals unfold, 
Winter is passing. 

With snowstorm, rough, cold. 

We are watching for you. 
We know where you dwell, 

So come up, sweet blossom. 
And your story tell. 

Oh, you dainty flower, 

Open wide your eye, 
How we love your presence, 

Fragrant, yet so shy. 



98 



A FERN 

Have you ever w^atched a fern 
As it came up in the spring, 

With its vi^ooly, fuzzy coat 
Such a ragged looking thing? 

First the wooly heads appear, 
Most unlike real ferns they look, 

In great numbers decking the woods, 
In every shady nook. 

Nor color, odor, flower 

To render them attractive. 

Yet what a perfect romance 
Their unfolding leaves do give. 

When the leaves are all flattened, 
Their source like a mystery, 

There comes the fascination 
Of their early history. 

The symmetry of its form 

The delicate leaf texture 
Makes a fern the daintiest 

Plant-child of Mother Nature. 



99 



FORGET DULL CARE 

Let us now forget dull care 

For the sky is blue and fair; 

Banish all sorrow and grief 

For you know life's joys are brief; 

None can tell what bliss or woe 

Is scheduled for the morrow, 

So with hearts most blithe and gay 

Make the best of life to-day. 

Let our thoughts the time employ 
Finding all there is of joy 
In each fleeting hour sunny, 
Forget business and money; 
Seek some pleasure in this life, 
There's too much of greedy strife, 
And too oft when skies are fair. 
We indulge in naught but care. 



lOO 



EFFICIENCY 

Boast not of vast knowledge, 

'Tis of small value, 
If you show not refinement 

In all that you do. 

The essential features 

In education 
Are gentleness, politeness, 

Toward every one. 

Without social culture, 

You can't meet success; 
Much knowledge, little wisdom, 

Will but few impress. 

Good manners and wisdom 

Are really worth more 
Than mental proficiency. 

The fruit of book-lore. 



lOI 



TRILLIUM 

(Wake-Robin) 

Three sepals, three petals, 
And three green leaves too, 

Are what in the trillium 
Comes to our view. 

With a stem long and smooth, 

This flower of spring. 
In pure white simplicity, 

Sweet sunshine doth bring. 

She lights up dark woodlands. 

And lends a true grace 
With her three-parted vestments 

And soft, pretty face. 

Sometimes called "Wake-robin," 

This snowy blossom 
Wakes up and smiles pleasantly, 

When the robins come. 

Nodding to her neighbors. 

The violets blue, 
The trillium so dainty 

Says "How do you do?" 



102 



TO THE SPRING 

Well, at last we have the pleasure, 
You, fair spring, to welcome bid. 

With your train of buds and blossoms 
That, from us, so long were hid. 

How you love to flaunt your sunbeams, 
Showing us how you can thrill, 

All the earth with joyous feelings, 
Leaving naught of frost or chill. 

'Tis to you, most fair visitor. 

We lift up a song of cheer, 
And we'd give you fond caresses, 

If we could, you are so dear. 



I03 



REAL WORTH 

If you would be an advantage 

To the household where you dwell, 

Banish all the ways of selfishness. 
Dullness and discord quell. 

Though fortune may pay no visit 

To fill lavishly your store, 
Invent some means to afford pleasure 

Make each day's good cheer more. 

Give worthy ambition your aid, 

Your utmost exertion lend 
To help all by the good influence 

Your ideas may extend. 

Amid all your aims of service 
And most attractive delight. 

Remember the honest purpose is 
"Work ever for the right!" 



104 



IN APRIL 

Such beauty in blossoming shrubs, 

In flowering fruit-trees and bushes, 
Such varieties of red, yellow, blue. 

While a tint of soft green pushes 
Its way through the mold in martial array, 

A trim carpet for daintiest queen, 
Form only a few of the pretty things 

Cast upon springtime's artistic screen. 

The birds' song increases in charm 

As each succeeding day grows longer, 
While the sun thrills meadowland and brooklet. 

And green things grow ever stronger; 
And more seeds are bursting their coats each day, 

Through warmth of spring's genial atmosphere. 
And midst all these signs of awakening 

There should be naught else but joy found here. 



105 



THE BASE BALL GAME 

Hurrah for good old baseball! 

That pastime athletic art, 
Where each member of the game 

Must make watchfulness his part. 

Each side with its adherents 

Ready to hurl loud applause, 
When a great catch saves the game, 

And their side a winning scores. 

The players must be earnest 

With ability to see 
Opportunity to defeat 

Opponents by strategy. 

Now boys, if you would win out. 

Have your eyes and hands well trained. 

For it is through such perfection 

Great players their fame have gained. 



io6 



WORK 

Idleness is degradation, 

There is ever work to do 
Or some occupation prudent 

That will bring some good to you. 

If you must assume some service, 

Remember the conduct due 
Toward those with whom you mingle, 

Courtesy keep e'er in view. 

All your efforts nobly center 

Round the thought that on some day 

Patience and strong perseverance 
Will make fortune come your way. 



107 



THE CAT-BIRD 

"Meow, Meow!" came from a neighboring tree, 
And I knew a catbird was at hand; 

A black-capped soldier in suit of gray 
Had returned from the great south land. 

I gathered some twigs, grass, weeds, and strings. 
Put them in a conspicuous place; 

I wished he'd make a nest near my home, 
All his movements I could then trace. 

Well, soon I found there was a couple 

For they took my offering away, 
And built a nest in a thick-set bush 

With many a blossoming spray. 

Many an evening I watched them, 

Tilting saucily on leafy boughs 
Oft uttering most varied music 

Pausing to exchange "Meows." 

A brood of nestlings enhanced their joys 

The hungriest of hungry babies, 
How many were the garden insects 

That it took to satisfy these. 

We should be thankful to the cat-birds 
And their insect-devouring children 

For thousands of plant life destroyers 
Are each summer by them eaten. 

I found that the cropping season over 
The cat-birds suddenly disappeared 

And there was the nest as forsaken 
As if the mites some danger feared. 

1 08 



IN THE ORIOLE'S NEST 

To and fro, to and fro, 

Swings the oriole's nest, 
The winds may come, the winds may go 

But birdies are at rest. 

At rest in the elm tree, 

Are oriole babies 
Swinging to the lullaby 

Of the evening breeze. 

Swinging, lightly swinging. 

To and fro, to and fro. 
Thus the baby orioles 

Nor fear, nor care need know. 

In rain and wind and sun, 

'Tis swinging, that pouch nest. 
No enemy is near 

And cry-babies are at rest. 



109 



SWEET MAY 

Sweet May comes tripping gaily, 
Her heart is full of song, 

She bids all the woodland songsters 
To bring their tunes along. 

The breezes trill and murmur 

Through garden, wood and mead, 

And fill the air with a fragrance. 
Which pleases us, indeed. 

The birds their sweet notes tender. 
The frogs are helping too, 

The brooklet pipes a sweet refrain 
As meadow it flows through. 

Oh, May time is so pleasant. 
She seems a magic thing. 

Birds and flowers and sunny hours 
Make her the Queen of Spring. 



no 



THE VESPER HOUR 

The bell in the old church tower 

Is inviting us to prayer; 
Its soft, sweet, enchanting strain 

Falls on the evening air, 
Bidding our purer spirit 

To join in day's dying song 
While yet a gleam of rosy light 

Does its image weak prolong. 

Oh, beautiful custom grown old 

Wherever truth's light is known ! 
What love thy pealing notes call forth ! 

What righteousness is sown ! 
Thine is not a mournful message. 

For it possesses the power, 
To fill us with heavenliness 

At this, day's parting hour. 

Thy ringing falls not on deaf ears; 

Even the wee birds respond ; 
Their soft murmurings sound like notes 

Of devotion firm and fond. 
While good-living mortals hasten 

To join in evening prayer 
In chapel, church or cathedral, 

Where reverence fills the air. 

Sweetest hour of all the hours! 

With mellow chimes to recall 
That day is drawing its last breath, 

Ere comes shadowy nightfall. 
Love surely blends with thy summons, 

For we turn our thoughts to Him, 
WTiose friendship is life's fullest joy, 

And we chant a vesper hymn. 
Ill 



THE APPLE-TREE 

During May the apple-orchard 

Is all ablaze with bloom, 
We gaze, and absorb the wonder 

Of the color and perfume. 

The song-birds enjoy the picture, 

And entreat us to see 
All the happiness and splendor 

That is in the apple-tree. 

Choicest mother of the spring-time! 

With love we do behold 
All your precious tender children. 

As their beauty they unfold. 



112 



THE RAMBLERS' 

"Auto Song" 

Let us sing a song, as we go along, 
Naught to hinder, late or early, 
:In our auto, swiftly, gaily. 
Singing a glad song, as we go along.: 

Chorus : 

Caution marks our song, as we go along, 
Be the day fine, or quite dreary, 
:We of rambling ne'er grow weary. 
Caution marks our song, as we go along. : 

How we glide along, rough places among. 
Naught to hinder, late or early, 
:In our auto, steering wisely, 
Singing a glad song, as we go along. : 

Many miles we make, past meadow and lake, 
Naught to hinder, late or early, 
:In our auto, safe and speedy 
Singing a glad song, as we go along.: 

Homeward now we'll steer, where we'll meet friends 

dear. 
Naught to hinder, late or early, 
:In our auto, smoothly, bravely, 
Singing a glad song, as we go along.: 



113 



" THE FATAL SHIP" 

(The Titanic) 

Why boast of man's superior work, 

When nature in freakish state 
Can fall upon great giant walls 

And perfect features annihilate? 

Science and art together brought forth 

A steamship's gigantic form 
With frame of steel, and steam-power 

To withstand ocean's most terrific storm. 

The ship with many people aboard 

Abounded in wealth and pride 
And feared no harm, as on and on. 

Its strong wheels propelled it through icy tide. 

A shock! an iceberg has made it quake, 

Oh! what shall passengers do? 
Ah! the men hasten to give help 

That is to the women and children due. 

In the face of impending danger 

Their courtesy mocked by death, 
Brave men realize nature's power 

Over man's genius, and pause for breath. 

A sorrow that time cannot efface 

Springs from this dread tragedy. 
And pity and love and remorse 

Mark the fate of this giant of the sea. 



114 



A GENTLEMAN 

The man with the friendly grip 

And the honest genial smile 
Is the one who can make folks happy 

And life's pathway worth the while, 
Is the one who can make folks happy 

And life's pathway worth the while. 

O, give me the pleasant fellow, 

Whose manner wholesome and frank 

Sheds happiness on ev'ry one 
From low to loftiest rank. 

Sheds happiness on ev'ry one 
From low to loftiest rank. 

He need not have vast estate, 

Of gold he needs no store, 
He lacks all deceitful ways and means 

And flow of flatt'ring lore. 
He lacks all deceitful ways and means 

And flow of flatt'ring lore. 

O, he has that sunny nature 

That smiles at ev'ry turn, 
And 'tis just for such pure happiness 

That the whole wide world doth yearn, 
And 'tis, just for such pure happiness 

That the whole wide world doth yearn. 



115 



AT THE CLOTHING STORE 

Here in this well-equipped clothing store 
You will find woolen patterns galore; 
Should you wish garments with finish neat, 
Here is a line of goods most complete, 
Sure to please mother, sweetheart, or wife, 
As never before have you done in your life. 

Here are suits for the boy, mother's pride, 
And the sprightly youth with intended bride, 
And the pater familias, so discreet. 
Who loves to hear his suit is so neat 
That he looks like a college professor 
Or lawyer, he is such a fine dresser. 

The pure cloth, workmanship and style 

Will make all your friends look on and smile. 

And enthusiastic at the sight 

They'll come here too, where all is just right 

In material, finish and price, 

And to crown the deal, people say "How nice!" 



ii6 



SPRING IS HERE 

Harsh Winter's back is broken, 

No longer may he reign, 

O'er Mother Nature's darlings 

With ponderous icy chain. 

Hyacinths and dajffodils, 

Tulips too, and crocus, 
Springtime's favorite blossoms, 

Have delivered notes to us. 

Out-of-doors, forsythia 

And pussy-willow call 
To meadowland and brooklet. 

News of Winter's great downfall. 

Winter and his faithful train. 
The frost and ice and snow, 

Must hie away to somewhere. 
More northwardly, they must go. 

A silent army creeping. 

In form of velvet grass. 
Tells us that bitter Winter 

Must to Spring the power pass. 



117 



HEROISM 

Heroism is honesty 

Not a purpose for vain glory, 
Or fame for some great achievement, 

It has a different story. 

It loves all things that God has made 

Respects every fellowman. 
And in time of any danger 

Gives all the real help that it can. 

All unmindful of its own fate 

It will assist a weaker one 
Tn.t manho(trl r.nd true womanhood 

Will last till their strength is all done. 

Heroism is not measured 

In dollars or lordly estate, 
'Tis found when trials confront us 

And we act well, ere 'tis too late. 



ii8 



IN BLOSSOM TIME 
(Easter) 

Pussy willow catkins 

Some green, some gold arrayed, 
Declare that blossom-time has come 

And they lead in the parade. 

Then come the bulbous plants, 

Each in its own set place, 
Hyacinth, narcissus, crocus, 

And lily with stately grace. 

Potted pansies sparkle 

Their centers gay with gold, 

While the primrose's dainty tints 
Are a marvel to behold. 

The poppy's scarlet flame 

Proclaims her somewhat gay. 

She seems to possess a swagger, 
Such self-important display. 

Mignonette sniffs the scent 

From stalks both tall and straight 
Of lily-of-the-valley pure 
And heliotrope's sweet state. 

Vines, with flowers drooping, 

In beauty downward hung, 
Wistaria and climbing rose 

Seem on fairy tendrils strung. 



119 



A SNAIL 

I saw a snail acrawHng, 

Along the garden wall, 
And once he came so near the edge, 

I thought he'd surely fall. 

His house did not seem heavy, 

As he nearer to me came. 
He did not seem to be fearful, 

He seemed to be quiet tame. 

I didn't make the least sound, 

So curious was I, 
To find out how he got along, 

Yes, what he traveled by. 

I found he had a queer foot. 

So sticky and so flat. 
And two long horns on which like beads, 

His eyes shone as he sat. 

Two short horns and two long ones, 

A foot on which to crawl, 
I didn't think he was handsome. 

That snail upon the wall. 



1 20 



TO A SEED 

We plant you in mold 

And soon we behold 

Each in its turn bravely proceed, 

Root, stem, leaves, flowers, fruit, seed, 

From beneath your magic fold. 

So much of true worth 
To you can trace birth 
You tiny mite, solid and round 
If you be healthy and sound 
When you're put into earth. 

Such a tiny thing! 

Such surprises spring 

From within your provident wall, 

That their issue seems to call 

"A seed's a wonderful thing." 



121 



A MAN'S CAREER 

Each one may fashion his career 
And earn prejudice or praise 

By the degree of true manliness 
Displayed in his plans and ways. 

Some people's generosity 

Has won them endless renown 

While others by their broadness of mind 
Have gained a glorious crown. 

The spirit that springs from a heart 
Where truth is the ruling power 

Will gain respect from its fellowmen 
Life's one most precious flower. 

We find gentlemen midst all creeds, 

Midst men of every nation, 
Whose loyalty to firm truth and right 

Calls forth our veneration. 

Whatever a man's position 

He is weaving day by day. 
Some distinctive characteristic 

In his own peculiar way. 



122 



HELPFULNESS 

We all have new ideas sometimes, 
Why not try to see what good 

Or benefit may be derived 
If they be understood. 

Should you find they are beneficial, 

Then interest some other, 
Exchange good plans and suggestions 

With some sister, brother. 

You can sharpen the wits of people. 

And interest many more. 
And help to open wide some eyes 

That hardly saw before. 

So, should you be an ingenious one. 

Your best ideas extend 
To all the strugglers you may find, 

And many faults you'll mend. 



123 



SPRING DRESSES 

Spring has such pretty colors 
With which to proudly dress 

All her blossoming children, 
That the sight doth us impress. 

Some blossoms pink or purple 
Some blossoms almost white, 

And others decked in yellow 

Make the springtime appear bright. 

The fruit-trees in the orchards 
In white and pink come out 

Too soon their blossoms scatter 
When wind comes whistling about. 

The maple, poplar, alder, 

And many forest trees. 
As does blossoming dogwood 

Flaunt their colors in the breeze. 



124 



TRUE STRENGTH 

Have you suffered deeply? 

Do not idly sit and fret; 
Leave the past behind you 

And the wrong you will forget. 

Accept to-day's presence, 

Do the very best you can 
To be calm and cheerful, 

There is joy in this wise plan. 

Some goodness always comes 
Your strength will ever increase, 

If you dismiss sorrow, 

And your heart from woe release. 

Rich opportunity 

Comes forward with each new day, 
So put forth all your strength 

In a trustful, hopeful way. 



125 



MERRY BIRDS 

The minstrel band up in the trees 

Sing oft a tune cheery 
Loud and clear, ring out their notes 

Dispelling thoughts weary. 

Singing, singing, whistling, trilling, 

So happy in their glee 
Where all the world is fresh and fair, 

They rejoice to be free. 

With peep of day songsters begin 

To send out merry notes. 
And pleasant music fills the air, 

As smoothly sweet it floats. 

We owe love to these brave warblers, 

These minstrels of the air, 
For oft their glad message comes 

WTien life's skies are not fair. 



126 



ON LIFE'S OCEAN 

Each life is like a bark driven 
Out on the great ocean wide, 

Where oft mid strong gale and tempest, 
Prayer doth to a safe haven guide. 

On days when sunshine is streaming, 

No terror of wind or wave 
Comes to mar the lustrous surface, 

Our spirits are joyous and brave. 

Again with bright stars reflecting 
Like guardians on each side, 

Dispelling fear while night is near, 
Smoothly and buoyantly we glide. 

When the voyage is completed. 

Into the "Haven of Rest" 
We steer our barks to be anchored 

And stay with the heavenly blest. 



127 



OUR LIVES 

Life is a battle of joys and woes, 

Of labor, and trouble, and strife. 
Fortune smiling, or misfortune riling 

The fleeting hours of one's short life. 

No matter how many earthly years 

Are assigned as our allotment. 
As naught they will be to eternity. 

Our life beyond God's firmament. 

Does some burden seem unbearable? 

Do the uttermost that .you can 
To make a brave fight and all will come right 

Courage will help to scatter the van. 

Should despair help make you weary. 

Fill you with doubt and bitterness. 
Don't let your heart yield, your strongest force 
wield, 

Foes must retreat before manliness. 

Out of darkness and trouble come light. 

There is e'er some gladness in store. 
The clouds of to-day are paving the way 

To make to-morrow's sun shine the more. 



I2§ 



IN THE MAPLE TREE 

Out in the leafy maple-tree, 

There is a robin's nest, 
With mother-bird and birdies three. 

To hide beneath her breast. 

The father bird is e'er busy, 
For food he's on the wing, 

Or else in neighboring elm-tree 
A pretty song doth sing. 

"Over there in that shady tree," 

The father robin sings, 
"Is my dear mate and babies three 

My dear beloved darlings." 



129 



ARBUTUS 

(Mayflower) 

Dear little flower lifting your head, 

Fairest of spring's gems, sweetly scented, 

How gallantly brave are you, for you grow 
All through stormy winter's sleet and snow. 

Your leathery leaves, all stiff and round. 
And closely trailing along the ground, 

Keep green and fresh-looking, all thro' the year. 
While in winter your flower-buds appear. 

You greet us while yet we have snowfalls. 

Pink-tinted blossom through whom spring calls 

That Jack Frost must flee, give up voice and room 
To all the dear flowers ready to bloom. 

Raising your form from out a snow-drift, 
We find that yours is a life of thrift. 

From one main stem any number of roots 

Have been formed, and are sending up shoots. 

But 'tis your fair blossom we most praise. 

You come forth to greet us these spring days; 

With a wealth of honey stored at your base 

That through your fragrance insects may trace. 



130 



THE SPRING RAIN 

Hark, how the rain is falling! 

Don't you hear its steady tap, 
As it calls to all the growing things, 

That are hid in Nature's lap? 

They've been so soundly sleeping, 
Some of them are dreaming yet. 

And the gentlest way to waken them 
Is to make their coats quite wet. 

So the rain softly patters. 

Raps at the great bedroom door 

And then creeps cautiously down below 
Where all seemed silent before. 

Each sleeper soon awakens. 

Comes out of its drowsy state. 

And one and all give thanks to the rain 
That called them ere 'twas too late. 



T31 



MAYTIME, PLAYTIME 

Now for lovely sunny May 

With its freshly verdant lands, 
Everj'^ side you look upon 

You see nature's stretching hands, 
Children in their happy glee 

Like the song-birds and the flowers 
Make the world seem young again 

After April's showers, 
Pleasant feelings fill our hearts 

And once more we hear the strain 
Of the joy of merry playtime 
Ushered in on May-time's train. 

All the freshness that is here 

On the bush and tree and vine 
Tends to bring us hope and strength 

Mixed with love and life divine; 
Just a little while ago, 

Every thing seemed sad and drear, 
But from all that weariness 

See the flow of sunny cheer ; 
Life, love, tripping together 

Awhistling the sweetest tune 
Hand in hand with blossom band 

Will comfort us until June. 



132 



LIFE AND DESTINY 

From morning till night 
From night till morn, 

Round go the hours 
Since we were born. 

Whence go the hours? 

Can any one tell? 
Destiny is what 

They surely spell. 

Each life a canoe 

In its own rime 
Long or short voyage 

Marking its time. 

Some voyages clear 

No pain or woe, 
Others most cloudy 

Where'er they go. 

Yet when each voyage 

Reaches its end 
God will His welcome 

To each one tend. 

Then in His realm 

Perpetually 
Life will be peaceful 

Bright and happy. 



133 



WILL-POWER 

If something looks as if 'twere wrong 

For you to do or say, 
Consider well its principles, 

Its virtues scan and weigh. 

Cultivate a steady habit, 

A sort of exercise 
Of will-power over temptation. 
Be strong and not unwise. 

Will-power governs the virtues, 

Banishes appetite 
And inclination toward wrong, 

It yields to naught but right. 



'34 



FRIENDS 

A whistling boy, a dog at his feet, 
Came walking briskly down the street; 
Suddenly the dog scampered away 
As if he were after some wonderful prey. 

A hustle, a bustle, a scared cat, 
Ran down the roadway, scat, scat, scat. 
The dust flying and the dog behind. 
Advancing on kitty as swift as the wind. 

Wasn't she eager to make escape 

From the effects of the sad scrape 

She would encounter should the dog win, 

For there'd be a battle of tooth, claw, and skin. 

Oh ! puss discovered an open door. 

Straight she flew in, across the floor; 

The maid of all work drove out the dog, 

Who towards the boy disappointedly did jog. 

He soon caught up and trotted along, 
As if he had ne'er committed a wrong; 
He made up his mind, he'd never run 
After a cat again for 'twas little fun, 

With a wag of his tail, he walked on. 
For after all, this was his John 
Who always greeted him with a smile, 
And a friendly pat, or a bone worth while. 

"There's no use bringing on fights you see, 

No more cats will I scare" said he; 

And as if 'twere a dog's greatest joy, 

He kept up a pace with the gay whistling boy. 



135 



A MAY SONG 

O May, most beautiful time, 

Sunny and flowery and sweet. 
With the songs of the birds and children 

To make life's joy more complete. 

May, lovely time of orchard blooms. 

And nests in leafy trees. 
Brings happy hours mid wildwood flowers, 

Enjoying the fragrant breeze. 

Lads and lassies gaily tripping, 

Asinging pure songs of glee 
Seek the loveliest buds and blossoms 

That in woodland there may be. 

Birds and bees and happy children 

All unite in one glad lay. 
That "Living is a round of pleasure 

In the merry month of May." 



136 



DUTY 

Try to be cheerful, whatever your task, 

Hasten to do with a will ; 
Life is so short there's no time to be cross, 

Each day's work with pleasure fulfill. 

If work seems depressing, make up your mind. 

To do what you can with care. 
There is only one way to do things right. 

That is to do well your just share. 

Precepts are farces if not put to use, 

The very best state of mind 
Says "Work with a will, derive benefit, 

Find no time to be cross, unkind." 

Don't mind the weather, forget that it rains, 

If you would be of value 
To the school, or home, or community, 

That depends on the work you do. 



137 



A PLANT 

A little seed wakened 

That long since seemed dead, 
But it was merely sleeping 

In its winter bed. 

It felt the warm sunshine, 

And the spring rain too. 
That tapped on its coverlet 

And moistened it through. 

Its root went down, down, down. 

And upward a stem 
Of daintiest emerald 

Like unto a gem. 

The leaves came in couplets, 

Ever more and more, 
While the faithful mother-plant 

Fragrant blossoms bore. 

The sweet-scented flowers 
Soon lost their bright hue, 

And their petals quite faded 
Down to the ground flew. 

Then came the fruit juicy. 

In whose sheltered core 
There were seeds for the future, 

A thousand or more. 

This is the plant's story. 

True story indeed 
From its life when it rested 

Until it bore seed. 

138 



LILY OF THE VALLEY 

Sweet little flower 

Rich in perfume 
Tell me, O, tell me 

How 'tis you bloom. 

"I like to be loved 

And thus you see 
I share all I have 

Scent and beauty." 

"Each morning I awake 

All bathed in dew 
Which freshens my form 

So fair to view." 

"These bells on my stem 

I ring at night, 
Some fire-flys come 

And give me light." 

"They guard me from harm, 

And when the sun 
Appears in the morn 

Their work is done." 

All through my short life, 

My scent I share. 
And I like the bells 

Of white I wear. 



139 



MR. WOODPECKER 

I am Mr. Woodpecker, 
See my strong, short bill; 

I am the friend of forest trees 
For many a grub I kill. 

My nest is a hole I make 

By boring in the wood 
With my strong, sharp, pecking bill, 

A tool, of matchless good. 

Some pretty white eggs are laid 
By my dear helpful mate; 

While she sits patiently hatching, 
I am hunting early, late. 

I bore, bore, in tree trunks 
And find the grubs so mean 

That help destroy the forest trees 
And rob them of their green. 

I am the birdland carpenter. 
In tools none can compare. 

My bill, and tail and hooked claws; 
Are implements quite rare. 



140 



THE SUN'S MESSAGE 

When the golden sun ascends the sky, 
And at its welcome touch all life thrills, 

"Up, up," it says to the bird and bee, 
"Up to the clouds, and over the hills." 

"Up, up," it says to the flower and tree, 

"Send forth thy brightness in bud and bloom, 

All thy hidden beauty awaken, 

Over the land, distribute perfume." 

To all the beasts that roam wood and field 
It sends its message from clear blue sky, 

"Up and hie o'er the ground, seeking where 
Richest herbs and freshest grass blades lie." 

To us, God's own, the sun's greeting is, 

"Up and tread the path for thee made bright, 

And by thy noble actions to-day, 

Lead others onward to truth and light." 



141 



'TIS MAY 

'Tis May, 'tis May, 'tis May; 

I know it by the scent, 
That greets me in the garden, — 

Fresh flowers have perfume spent. 

'Tis May, 'tis May, 'tis May; 

See the wistaria, 
In pendent sprays of leaves and flowers. 

Light green and lavender. 

'Tis May, 'tis May, 'tis May; 

The snow-ball tree is crowned 
So copiously, its branches 

Are weighted to the ground. 

'Tis May, 'tis May, 'tis May; 

And handsome, nodding plumes 
Deck the horse-chestnut on the lawn. 

Who a stately form assumes. 

'Tis May, 'tis May, 'tis May; 

A neighboring cherry-tree 
Is trying hard her gems to guard 

'Mongst branches quite leafy. 

'Tis May, 'tis May, 'tis May, 

Our poplar, straight and tall, 
Seems like a mass of living green 

Atowering over all. 



142 



PEEP O' DAY 

Wake and greet the new-born day, 
Hark, the birds on yonder spray, 
CaroHing their morning notes. 
From their earnest, flute-like throats. 

From their sleep the flowers wake, 
And of freshening dew partake ; 
Up, let's swiftly hie away 
Where the breezes softly play. 

Come with me and greet the sun, 
Let vain slumber now be done. 
Up and we will haste away 
Where the little fishes stay. 

List the birds and bees singing. 
Theirs the pleasure awinging 
In and out through branches fair, 
Glorying in the morning air. 

Daylight softly creeping falls 
On the convent's granite walls. 
And the birds and bees peep in 
That they may join the matin. 

Nature worships sweet morning, 
With song, rises at dawning; 
And we, too, should find a way 
To give praise to peep o' day. 



143 



IN MEMORIAM 

The Blue and the Gray, the Blue and the Gray, 
Remember their deeds, let love its part play; 
Cover the grave of each brave patriot, 
Let not one martyred soldier be forgot. 

Bring kindest of thoughts, as w^ell as sweet flowers, 
The Blue and the Gray, they all were ours; 
Each rendered service for his chosen cause, 
But let us not now on these items pause. 

Let's pray together and weep together. 
Whilst peacefully they're resting together, 
A silent, cherished, united brotherhood. 
Who gave their lives for a predicted good. 

Let's keep green the place where the heroes lie. 
Remember them reverently as years pass by. 
Sweet thoughts for the Blue, sweet thoughts for the 

Gray, 
And in love high in Heaven, with God, may they 

stay. 



144 



THE VETERANS ON PARADE 

They are marching, they are marching, 
Fair the day, cloudless the sky, 

Decked with all their fine insignia 
The array makes blood run high ! 

They are marching, they are marching, 

Heroes of the days gone by; 
Keeping step to an olden tune, 

That brings tear-drops to the eye. 

They are marching, they are marching, 
'Neath the banner carried high! 

Cheered and honored by admirers. 
Assured their deeds shall never die. 

They are marching, they are marching, 
Proud their work was not vain. 

And their purpose, "Justice, freedom, 
Loyalty" must ever reign. 



145 



TO HORSES 

We all love horses for all that they do 

To bring health, food and clothing to me and to 

you; 
We each know some horse who holds goodly share 
In our love for dumb creatures, to harm him who'd 

dare? 

Naught pleases one more than the picture true 
That at noon hour each day may be brought to our 

view 
When wee, wise sparrows and pigeons pretty 
Come knowingly and romp about, where horses may 

be. 

The kind beasts must know what the birds are about 
For they do their very best to make grains drop out ; 
Should horses be banished as some prophesy 
Then many a city-bird will suffer thereby. 

The rich man's horses enjoy finest care, 
Wealthy owners providing the choicest of fare; 
Yet the poor man's pet is just as happy 
What with kindness most wholesome, well cared 
for is he. 

Who could be cruel, use treatment unkind, 
What more patient servant can humanity find? 
Given good food, and kept warm and neat, 
These dear animals return thanks most complete. 

Then here's to all horses, to them we love owe. 
Those who keep city streets clean, those who to fires 

go, 
The farmer's horse too, what beast could do more. 
And the horse who comes daily, to replenish our 

store. 

146 



THE FIRST ROSE 

Oh dear, sweet, pure, fresh, bright, red rose, 
Last breath of spring that hither blows, 
What beauty in thy form combined, 
What fragrance in thy scent divined. 

Example of blessed purity, 
June's first sacrifice we love thee. 
Amidst sharp thorns, what sweetness flows 
From out thy form, fresh, bright red rose. 

Thy perfume, dear, floats tenderly. 
Thy presence summons ecstacy; 
Couldst thou but speak, what rapture then 
Would fill the minds and hearts of men. 

Created by a soul divine, — 
Ideal form and scent are thine. 
Last breath of spring, best offering 
That summer's floral feast doth bring. 



147 



PRUDENCE 

Be not puffed up with great pride 

When your work has won much praise; 

Nor with senseless sorrow bow, 
When foul contumely flays. 

Let not anger find its way 

When a foe commits some wrong; 
'Twill prove a nobler spirit 

To forget and go along. 

Think how often you have done 
Some deed that brought forth evil ; 

So dismiss all unkindness, 

Triumph o'er the wrong and ill. 

Better 'tis to be subject 

To a wrong, a rude offense, 
Than that you should be guilty 

Of the lack of firm prudence. 



148 



MORNING-GLORIES 

"Tap, Tap," say the raindrops. 
And then the wind blows. 

And the little seed wakens 
And a slender root grows. 

A slim stem reaches up 

To drink some sunlight 
While the root sends out rootlets 

In the soil, left and right. 

Then stronger and stronger 
The root and stem grow 

That in the warm summertime 
Pretty blossoms may blow. 

In the bright, Autumn days 
Should you look you'll find 

Many cups filled with brown seeds 
Swaying in the cool wind. 



149 



WILD ROSES 

I found where the sweetest roses bloom, 

I traced their haunt by their sweet perfume, 

I followed the trail of the precious scent. 

Like a bee seeking honey, my thoughts were bent. 

Their gold centers turned toward the sun, 
The soft pink petals of every one 
Surrounded by leaves of the freshest green 
Made as pretty a picture as ever was seen. 

I lingered long to imbibe the scent, 
I wondered what all this beauty meant 
Far away from the gaze of the thoroughfare. 
This wealth of perfume, was it lost in the air? 

Indeed 'twas not lost, for there came bees, 
Who tracked the prize through the scented breeze, 
And many a journey to this rich mine 
Was made to delve and extract the gold fine. 

The roses resplendent in the glow 

Of the morning sun were glad to bestow 

Their gift to the bees, and make the world bright 

By their form and their scent, sources of delight. 



150 



THE SHEPHERD 

The shepherd sings a song, "La, la," 

It echoes from the hills 
He's happy with his sheep, "La, la," 

He knows not fear nor ills. 

Beneath the blue heavens, "La, la," 
When hills are green he roams 

Birds on the boughs singing, "La, la,' 
Telling him of their homes. 

But he loves the dear sheep, "La, la," 

And happy all the day. 
He guards them faithful, "La, la," 

No harm may come their way. 

Carefully, tenderly, "La, la," 

Fatherly he doth guide 
His weak, innocent flock, "La, la," 

Watchful on every side. 

His steady companion, "La, la," 

A dog of keenest sense 
Seems as anxious as he, "La, la," 

E'er ready for defense. 



151 



SWEET CLOVER 

Sweet clover blossqms 

How fragrant you are; 
Breathing your perfume 

To us from afar. 

You brighten pastures 

Where the cattle stray 
You greet us with smiles 

Along the roadway. 

You're a friend to bee, 

And many a rover, 
By the gold you give 

From your store, sweet clover. 



152 



IDEALS 

Have you ever w^atched a busy bee 

As from flower to flower he went, 
Lighting upon clover or lily, 

Or tracing sweet flower's scent? 
Then he took the pure essence homeward, 

And changed it into honey ideal, 
And helped fill the winter storehouse 

With enough for many a meal. 

Just as the honey-bee visits flower 

And gets profit from what he finds there. 
So should we each day show improvement 

Where so much is bright and fair. 
The love, truth, and firm perseverance 

Which create in us sweet thoughts ideal, 
Should, like the gleanings of the bee. 

Show good results in actions real. 



153 



TREES 

Weary mortals often rest 

On the grass beneath their shade, 
And enjoy the refreshing breeze 

By whispering branches made. 

These benefactors silent 

Afford us many treasures, 
Pleasant shelter, bird music too, 

In tuneful rhymes and measures. 

They give us beautiful thoughts 

Of patience and happiness. 
And Mother Nature's wise, wise ways. 

Of making their form and dress. 



154 



IN JUNE 

Oh this is the time of roses, 

Of lilies and pansies too, 
Each with its velvety petals 

And center of golden hue. 

The dearest blossoms of summer. 

In color and odor sweet, 
Appear when June's pleasant sunshine 

Falls gently on flower-fleet. 

Sweet clover, daisies, buttercups. 
Much may we give them of praise, 

They brighten vale, meadow, brookside. 
And make splendid the June days. 

Yes, June comes creeping o'er the hill. 
With tuneful, flowery trains. 

Of blossoms sweet, berries to eat, 
And beautiful birdland strains. 



155 



JUNE DAYS 

The sky is a bright, clear blue, 
The clouds are soft as down. 

And the trees in woods and orchard 
Have on a leafy crown. 

The birds are singing gaily 

They fly from bough to bough, 

To tell the world they're worshipping 
Nature as she is now. 

The glory of pure sunshine 

Is on each growing thing, 
While bird and bee make meadows hum, 

With the notes which they sing. 

June days bring us many joys. 
From out dear nature's store. 

Sweet-scented flowers, leafy bowers. 
Green fields, and birds galore. 



156 



THE PRIDE OF PATRIOTISM 

We hail the "Stars and Stripes" to-day 
As we've never hailed before — 

More brilliant, splendid, impressive, 
Than in cherished days of yore. 

We ponder over its meaning, 

We consider it the bond 
That unites us as a nation, 

A brotherhood firm and fond. 

Its ideas of Truth and Justice, 
"Firm purpose to uphold Right," 

Are the "Pride of Patriotism," 
Our Republic's treasured light. 

So we hail the precious banner, 
Whose bespangled field of blue 

Grows brighter as the world grows old. 
May its stars fore'er accrue. 



157 



SUMMER IS HERE 

Ha, ha, summer is here again, 

Put by your books, lay down your pen, 

Hasten away to some cool spot. 

Let school and study be forgot. 

Ha, ha, what anticipation 
Of a pleasant glad vacation, 
Remote from printed maps and books. 
Find sweet relief in living brooks. 

Ha, ha, all the long sunny day 
Enjoy the charm of ocean spray, 
Or from some moss-bedecked incline 
Drink in the sight of landscape fine. 

Ha, ha, summer is here again, 
With trips to mountains, sea, or glen, 
And life a round of purest song 
Wishing each day were twice as long. 



158 



RAIN IN SUMMER 

Hark, you pleasant rain afalling, 

Welcome to our garden bed, 
Quench the thirst of root and branches, 

Renew the life of flower-head. 

Merry, joyful, cooling raindrops. 

Patter gently in sweet showers, 
Bring good cheer to trees and grasses 

And the host of summer flowers. 

Oh, you laughing, sparkling raindrops, 

What with your work, the world grows fair, 

Singing gaily as you journey 
To purify oppressive air. 

See the brooklet! how it glories 

In the fullness that raindrops bring. 

How the anxious streamlets hurry 
To present fruits of their gleaning. 

Hark, the summer rain has fallen. 
And each flower holds up its head, 

And new life seems to have risen 
In meadow, field, and garden bed. 



159 



SUMMER 

Not long ago, we wished for spring, 

And now 'tis passed away 
And summer's here, with joy so dear. 

That one finds in long sunny day. 

The sun greets us at early morn, 

Sometimes a thunder shower. 
Comes o'er this way, on sultry day. 

To refresh thirsty root and flower. 

The sun smiles at us at even, 

Wishing us a "good-night," 
And we feel glad at joy that's had 

On summer days charmingly bright. 

Flowers in woods, fields, and gardens, 

In fittest atmosphere. 
Are nourished by sunshine wholesome 

And raindrops' sweet moisture most dear. 

The summer time seems all too short, 

A vision all too fleet ; 
And beauty bright passes from sight; 

Soon early autumn we must greet. 



1 60 



THE SUBWAY 

Some folks boast of automobiles, 

Airships, and bicycles, too, 
Motor boats and various craft, 

But these are naught to me or you. 

We are not the proud possessors 

Of a speedy vehicle, 
But that tube they call the "subway" 

Will convey us for a nickel. 

And, oh! such gallant gentlemen, 

Americans, s'il vous plait. 
Ride on the electric speeder. 

Commonly known as the "subway." 

Yes, the ladies must acknowledge 
That male passengers are kind, — 

"Men in the aisles, while damsels sit" 
Is the rule you will always find. 

Why shouldn't we like the "subway," 

Its object lessons splendid, 
Of economy, speed, manners, 

All its devious ways amid ? 



i6i 



TO A ROSE 

No fairer flower than thee, dear rose, 

No fairer flower than thee, 
Can ever loom, in beauteous bloom, 

Than thee, fair rose, than thee. 

No sweeter essence than thine, dear rose, 
No sweeter essence than thine, 

Will e'er be quaffed, in eager draught, 
Than thine, sweet rose, than thine. 



162 



IN FLOWER LAND 

I never grow lonely or weary 

As I ramble o'er countryside, 
Wild flowers greet me with pleasant smiles, 

Delighted are they to be spied. 

Each flower a symbol of patience, 

Humility, solitude too; 
A story romantic in detail 

Oft presents itself to my view. 

A native fairyland before me, 

Sparkling with sweet friendship and love, 
Makes me conscious of the All Father, 

Supremely all nature above. 

A lesson I've gleaned from fair flower land. 
Much beauty undiscovered lies, 

What with the indisposition 
Of indifferent human eyes. 

Our country seems to be garlanded, 
Floral gems spring up ev'rywhere — 

The loveliest blossoms and odors 
Make charming the surrounding air. 



163 



A HUMMING-BIRD 

The porch was covered o'er with a vine 
Whose blossoms made a perfumed bower; 

'Twas evening, and the fragrant scent 
Came forth from each bright flower. 

A ruby-throat, hungry and tired, 
Was attracted by the fragrance, 

Yet when he ventured to imbibe. 
He could scarce keep his balance. 

His tired wings refused to be strong, 

I expected that he'd fall 
Ere he could get a taste of the sweets 

That invited him to call. 

So I stole softly into the house, 

And made a sugary paste, 
Then moved softly toward the vine, 

And placed it where he might taste. 

Well you should have seen the wee rover, 

He deserted the nectar fine, 
And alighted on the steady plate, 

And sipped up the sugar wine. 

I think he liked the home-made sweet-meat. 
For he ventured nearer, nearer, 

As if he wished to thank the person 
Who had made his life seem dearer. 



164 



THE TOAD 

There is a toad in our garden, 

His coat is very rough 
And covered over with green spots 

That are ugly and tough, 

His bright eyes are gold-spectacled 

His legs ever must hop 
But to swallow a rich morsel 

He will suddenly stop. 

He grasps all kinds of queer insects 

Using his folding tongue, 
He never fears great buzzing flies. 

Nor by bees is he stung. 

He seems a servant quite useful, 

For he rids us of pests 
That in our garden beautiful 

Happen to make their nests. 

He loves to come out when it rains, 

Unmindful of the wet, 
And has lived here such a long time, 

That he is a dear pet. 



i6S 



CULTURE 

Does culture mean vast knowledge 
Acquired at a college, 
Acquaintance with the best thought 
And greatest deeds ever wrought, 
A sense of being all-wise. 
Ready e'er to criticise 
A neighbor's work in harsh way 
Is this true culture, do you say? 

Knowledge is not all indeed, 

Any grown-up child may read; 

Culture implies reverence, 

An appreciative sense 

Of another's chivalry 

Though book-learned you may not be; 

Culture tells not all it knows. 

Humbly reticent it doth pose. 



i66 



IN TIME OF WAR 

A fond mother kisses her son 

As off to the war he goes ; 
She asks heaven to bless and protect her boy 

And preserve him from mortal blow^s, 
So that after surviving fierce battles 

He may be privileged to return 
To her whose heart is quaking with fear 

And with pure mother love doth burn. 

A soldier's wife embraces him ; 

What terror fills her fond heart! 
Oh, why was ever dissension produced 

To tear these loving ones apart! 
A young man hastens fearlessly 

To where his fair sweetheart dwells, 
And mid smiles and tears, imparts to her 

The news that not e'en true love quells. 

To the front go these volunteers 

Almost impatient in their zeal 
To spill their blood as a sacrifice 

Their country's injury to heal. 
At home the fond ones, broken-hearted. 

Endure the strain like the valiant men; 
Some day the world will use sound reason 

And avert war with wise tongue and pen. 



167 



A PRAYER 

O, Father in Heaven, look down on us 

Thy children who love Thee through good and 
through ill, 

For though we are tempted on every side 
We truly wish to abide by Thy will. 

Just one tiny spark of the tender love 

That crowns the mercy with which Thou dost 
forgive 

Will help to efface all guilt on our part, 
And then for Thee, we may worthily live. 

We are most unfit to dare approach Thee, 

Yet, from no other source may we expect love 

That will cancel all ills, and bring such sweet peace 
As we find in Thee, Dear Father Above. 



168 



FOND MEMORIES 

Do your thoughts e'er bring you back 
To the days of "Long Ago," 

When life had no bitterness, 
Nothing but joy to bestow? 

Do you see playful children 

Near the glowing fireside. 
And the mother in the scene, 

With eyes that sparkle with pride? 

Can you trace each step onward 

From that innocent picture, 
And will your reminiscence 

The great influence endure? 

The fond, tender emotions 
Will soften the hardest heart, 

For contemplating "Mother" 
Can but gentleness impart. 



169 



THANK YOU 



"Thank you, thank you, thank you,' 
How pleasant it is to hear. 

This fair exchange of courtesy. 
It fills the heart with cheer. 

"Thank you, thank you, thank you,' 

Shows a splendid spirit. 
And its practice, like sweet music, 

Pleases those who hear it. 



"Thank you, thank you, thank you," 
How much warmth in it expressed! 

It shows a wealth of politeness, 
Whene'er it is addressed. 



170 



SYMPATHY 

Misfortune has made people unhappy 

While others suffer through mismanagement, 

And become dependent upon fellowmen, 
Who enjoy sunnier environment. 

We each have a mission pure to perform 
As long as the world has troubles to bear; 

Each must distribute much gladness and pleasure 
While others of grief have burdensome share. 

Extend all that you can of sympathy 
Not only in form of beautiful thought, 

But by some actual considerate help. 

Banishing woe by the true relief brought. 



171 



HEALTH 

More to be prized than stately halls, 

Or gems of priceless wealth, 
Or place upon a golden throne, 

Is the gift of perfect health. 

Of more sound worth than finest gold, 

Or garb of royal wealth, 
Costly by far than kingly crown 

Is the blessing, robust health. 

No gem, no jewel, no glory 

That goes with lordly wealth 
Can e'er compare, however rare, 

With the grace of good, sound health. 

Let haughty children of the rich 

Remain bedecked with wealth 
I do not envy their vain show, 

I would rather have good health. 



172 



MONEY 

Money, money, what a power 

You have to do ill or good! 
How much useful service rendered 

When you are but understood! 

You can cause sins manifold, 

Vanity, extravagance. 
While many poor unfortunates 

Waste you in some game of chance. 

Money, money, I oft wonder 
What we'd do without your aid. 

For it is with your indulgence 
That our honest debts are paid. 

Satisfied am I to handle 

Plenty to my wants supply. 

And let those who have vast riches 
Squander as the days go by. 



173 



FOR OLD LOVE'S SAKE 

Oh, what can bring more happiness, 
What can more rapture awake. 

Than the meeting of long-parted friends 
Who have love for old love's sake? 

The fragrance of the new-born rose 
Of whose freshness we partake 

Cannot diffuse a purer message 

Than sweet love for old love's sake. 

How we tenderly tell stories 

Which have helped our lives to make 
A tale of dull distress or delight. 

While we love for old love's sake. 

What with confidence we mingle 
Each occurrence, flake by flake, 

Till the legend of experience 

Is made known for old love's sake. 

Whate'er memories it fosters, 

It will e'er a silence break, 
For it is life's sunniest keynote, 

This fond love for old love's sake. 



174 



THE WATCHWORD 

Onward, onward, ever onward, 
Hear the words of hope and cheer, 

These the notes that thrill with comfort 
All who may their tidings hear. 

Onward, onward, ever onward, 
Honor, truth, courage display, 

As each dawning brings its sunlight. 
Strive to start a better day. 

Onward, onward, ever onward, 
Not with false or pompous show, 

But with messages of promise 

That new hope and life bestow. 

Onward, onward, ever onward, 

Step in paths, upright and fair, 
And life's duties, at last over, 

To the realm of rest repair. 



175 



TO MY MOTHER 

O Mother dear, your voice remains 

To guide me past iniquity; 
Where'er I go, whate'er my task, 

Your sayings seem to caution me. 

The love-light in your tender eyes, 
The virtue in your solemn tone, 

Will ever haunt my memory 

Now^ proud that I your care have known. 

You guided me when I was young. 
On, onward, up to wisest ways. 

So that e'en now, your trustful love 
A social part in my life plays. 

O, Mother dear, I promise you. 
As far as e'er 'tis in my power. 

To cherish all you did for me. 

When I was but a tender flower. 



176 



I'M LONELY DARLING 

I'm lonely darling, for I miss your kisses, 

I'm longing now to see your face once more. 
And hear you heart-song "Dearie, how I love you," 

come, bring back delightful days of yore. 

Chorus : 

This life is like a silent, barren desert, — 

The pity, kindness, love that once you bore. 
Pure and tender, your pleasing mirth so merry, 

Bring them to me dear, leave me nevermore. 
Return sweetheart, and cool my aching temples. 

Your patient care, bestow as heretofore. 
And I in turn shall love you so profoundly, 

You will leave me dear, never, nevermore. 

I'm lonely darling, how my heart is yearning, 

1 find no joy, no rest, since you're not here. 
There seems no sweetness in the world without you, 

My spirit has a gnawing, untold fear. 

Chorus : 

I'm lonely darling, how I miss the gladness 

With which your smile oft warmed my anxious 
heart, 

O, do return and bring me sweet caresses. 
Dispel the fear I have, make it depart. 

Chorus : 

I'm lonely darling, nothing will relieve me. 
Naught but your fondness can heal like a balm. 

Come back to me, my eyes are weary weeping. 
Life will possess again its former charm. 

Chorus: 
177 



OUR CHOICE 

Who shall be our leader? 

Whom shall we people choose? 
Who will govern us most sincerely 

And will not our rights abuse? 

For many years we've striven 

In the "Fight of Might and Right," 
But still the struggle's not requited, 

No victory's yet in sight. 

Our choice must be a soldier 

In the ranks of sympathy, 
No partisan to life-crushing trusts, 

Nor undue monopoly. 

Our choice must be a hero. 

Truth's champion most profound, 

Nor gain nor fame to upset the frame 
Of a judgment wise and sound. 

Our choice must be strong, righteous. 

Not faltering nor blind, 
To the nation's great necessities 

And weaknesses of mankind. 

Oh, for a faithful leader. 

One loyal to each mandate, 
To God and purest sincerity. 

Heart and soul he'll consecrate. 

Then here's that we be not rash 

Selecting one from the field 
Of measured heroes stalwart, learned, 

May our choice perfect fruit yield. 

178 



IN MY GARDEN 

As I promenade my garden 

Where blooms many a dainty flower, 

Innumerable fancies come, 

While the evening shadows lower. 

Tenderly, noiselessly, they creep. 

Like dreams they spread their wings o'er me, 
Prayer, praise, and fond remembrance. 

And purest love in each fancy. 

Garden mem'ries mingle sweetly, 

Kind thoughts of friends, absent and near. 

At the sight of each bright blossom, 
Invade, imbue the atmosphere. 

Yellowish hue, scarlet, white, blue. 

Clematis, lily, rose, heart's-ease, 
Waft welcome thought by fancy wrought. 

On the wings of the evening breeze. 



179 



IN THE ARBOR 

Beneath the arboreal shade 
Of the sturdy old grape-vine, 

There's where I like to sit at ease 
In summer weather, bright and fine. 

I have watched the fruit get larger, 

Day by day in size increase, 
Almost anxious in their swift growth 

To win sweet freedom and release. 

The dear, wee things, they do not know 
That now is their happy time. 

When they like children are growing, 
And living is all love and rime. 

Soon they will have reached their finish. 
And then from their mother dear. 

They will be torn and quickly borne 
To a separate atmosphere. 



1 80 



SWEET SUMMER MORN 

Sweet summer morn wakes gaily 
From the darkness of the night, 

Scented by fresh, sweet breezes 
And by rising sun made bright. 

Sweet summer morn wakes gaily 
As night's silence fades away, 

And happy birds' glad music 
Comes from tilting, leafy spray. 

Sweet summer morn wakes gaily, 
Trilling rhythm fills the air. 

Sunlight crowns the horizon 
Making all the earth smile fair. 

Sweet summer morn wakes gaily. 
Perfect accord starts the day, 

A rime of purest pleasure 

Seems about our sphere to play. 



i8i 



NEW YORK BAY 

Beautiful bay, beautiful bay, 

How genial thy bosom, how welcoming thy lay, 

As stranger and native together pray, 

To enjoy thy refuge, oh, beautiful bay. 

Beautiful bay, beautiful bay, 

Continue to glisten, forever sing thy lay, 

At morn and at night, these words will we say, 

"God bless all who traverse our Beautiful Bay." 

(Morning ) 

Beautiful bay, beautiful bay. 

All studded with proud sails on this pleasant day, 
With surface so blue and snowy white spray, 
How charming thy prospect, as we sail away. 

(Evening) 

Beautiful bay, beautiful bay, 
How silvery thy waters, what sublime display, 
Moonlight reflecting, how glancing, how gay, 
As we ride thy billows, homeward making way. 



182 



GIRLIE DEAR 

Girlie dear, oh, how I love you, 
Adore you and your pretty ways, 

Handsome, winsome, wholesome Girlie, 
I can do naught, but sing your praise. 

Chorus : 

Whisper Girlie, that you love me. 

Tell me truly, oh, tell me dear. 
We'll be married, still be sweethearts. 

Life's gladness share, nor sigh, nor fear; 
Tell me Girlie, my life's solace, 

That my request will soon appear. 
And together, on life's river. 

We two shall live, midst love sincere. 

Girlie dear, say that you'll wed me. 
For you I'll slave while there is life, 

Oh, what joy you'll give me darling. 
If you'll promise to be my wife. 

How dear the thought, that of living 
For you sweet one, only for you. 

Oh, make my dream, so long cherished 
To own your heart, come true, most true, 

Darling Girlie, speak those sweet words, 
That you to me grant heart and hand. 

My heart, my life, my love are yours, 
No nobler gift, however grand. 



183 



THE LAST ROSE 

O, precious flower, I love you so, 

Your fragrant scent, your crimson glow. 

How is it that here quite alone 

You do not grieve, do not bemoan 

Your sleeping mates, so long since flown, 

Whilst garden fair is almost grown 

To where mere show, no sweet perfume, 

Is what these late flowers assume? 

You sweet treasure, how I love you. 
What cherished thoughts come to my view, 
As musing now, how joyfully 
I picked the first rose hastily. 
And how she whispered in my ear. 
Send me to those you hold most dear, 
And now go you, the self-same way, 
And sing my friends a loving lay. 

You are not lonely, nor am I, 
For to my friends you'll safely hie, 
And as a sweet simple token. 
Just as the first rose has spoken, 
I send you to give love and cheer 
To all mankind, both far and near, 
Essence of light and purity 
Message of truth, sincerity. 

Smile on fair one, life is so fleet. 
And all too soon, we fate must meet, 
Deliver sweetest promise dear, 
Implicit faith, constant, sincere. 
Your perfect form, your hallowed scent. 
Are quite as rich, magnificent. 
As e'er were those of the first rose, 
Who like you, Queen, nobly did pose. 
184 



TO THE BABY 

Baby dear, oh, baby dear, 

Come hither till I kiss you, 
And smooth your curly locks of gold, 

Peer into your eyes of blue. 

Baby dear, oh, baby dear. 

Let me hold your dimpled hand, 

And let me press your rosy cheek 
Against mine so long since tanned. 

Baby dear, oh, baby dear. 

With blissful love your smile fills me, 
Your sparkling eyes know nought of fear. 

Your soul from trouble is free. 

Baby dear, oh, baby dear. 

Would that all your heavenly joy 

Could stay to crown your life fore'er, 
Nor ill, nor sorrow annoy. 



185 



MAY 23 1913 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



015 863 902 6 A 



